Russell W. Tillgren

Russell W. Tillgren, a lifelong resident of Brockton, passed away peacefully Tuesday, July 3, 2018 at the Life Care Center of West Bridgewater after a long illness. He was the husband of 66 years of Gloria E. (Pilla) Tillgren. Born in Brockton, son of the late Robert E. and Hildur E. (Cullenberg) Tillgren, he was raised in Brockton, and was a graduate of Brockton High School, Class of 1945. He later graduated from Upsala College in New Jersey in 1951. He was a Veteran of the US Navy and earned the rank of Gunner's Mate Third Class. He was stationed in Sampson, NY, Newport, RI and on the USS Midway. He received the WWII Victory Medal and the American Theater Medal. Russell was the owner of RE Tillgren, Inc., a tree, landscape and snow removal company in Brockton, for over 45 years, retiring at age 72. Prior to that, he worked for Brotherhood Ice and Oil Company in Brockton for several years. Mr. Tillgren was a Boston Bruins fan who loved ice skating, playing hockey and watching sports on television. As a young man, he owned a boat and enjoyed taking it down to Cape Cod to go fishing or out for a cruise. He was a lifelong member of the Gethsemane Lutheran and Prince of Peace Church in Brockton. He was a former member of the Southeastern Tree Wardens Association and the Shedad Grotto Club of Brockton. Above all he enjoyed spending time with his family and grandchildren.

Russell was a resident of Life Care Center in West Bridgewater for the past 10 years and was treated with kindness, respect and care for his entire time there. The Tillgren family would like to extend their sincerest thanks to the entire staff of all of their support.

In addition to his wife, Russell is survived by his children; Edward B. Tillgren and his wife Linda of Berkley, Diane M. Filkins of Arizona and Jeffrey M. Tillgren and his wife Wendy of Taunton. He was the beloved Papa of Michelle and Jason Tillgren.

Private Family Services were held. Interment at Melrose Cemetery in Brockton. Donations in his memory may be made to the Multiple Sclerosis Society, POB 4527, New York, NY 10163 or to the Paralyzed Veterans of America, 801 18th St. NW, Washington DC 20006.