Harold Tilford, 91

Harold Lee Tilford, Sr., age 91, of Three Rivers, passed away on Friday, September 18, 2020 at his home. He was born in Clinton, IN on April 25, 1929, a son of George and Vira (Gilbert) Tilford. On May 17, 1952, he married Jeanette “Jean” Maggert in Elkhart.
Harold worked as Department Manager at Syndicate Systems in Middlebury, retiring in 1995. In his early years, Harold drove wrecker for Broker’s, worked at the Constantine Creamery, and worked in the RV industry. He also served on the Constantine Fire Department and for the Auxiliary Three Rivers Police Department for 20 years.
Surviving are his wife of 68 years Jean Tilford of Three Rivers, son Richard (Cindy) Tilford of White Pigeon, daughter Georgeanne (Dan) Gilmore of Sturgis, daughter-in-law Mary Tilford, Constantine, 10 grandchildren, numerous great and great-great grandchildren, with a great-great grandson due in February, and sister Barbara (Larry) Gracey.
He was preceded in death by his parents, infant daughter Doris Jean, sons Harold Jr. and James Ryan, son-in-law Frank Noel, a great-great granddaughter, brother Charles Tilford, and sister Mary Young.
Relatives and friends will be received Monday, September 21 from 6 to 8 PM and Tuesday, September 22 from 10 to 11 AM at the Eley Funeral Home in Constantine. Religious services will follow on Tuesday at 11 AM with Pastor Richard Hertsel, First Church of God, Three Rivers, officiating. Social distancing guidelines will be enforced and masks are required. Interment will follow in the Constantine Cemetery.
Memorial contributions can be given to Three Rivers Fire and Ambulance Service. Online messages can be left for the family at www.eleyfuneralhomes.com.