ELKHART — Charles W. "Charlie" Tilford, 86, of Elkhart, passed away Monday, Aug. 25, in his home.

Charlie was born Sept. 30, 1927, in Clinton to the late George Wayne and Vira Ethel (Gilbert) Tilford.

In addition to his parents, his wife, Beatrice (Maggert) Tilford, and a grandson, Randy Tilford preceded him in death.

Surviving are his five sons, David (Nyta) Tilford, Rodney (Loretta) Tilford and Gary Tilford, all of Elkhart, Timothy (Kerri) Tilford of South Bend and Marc Tilford of Elkhart; two daughters, Mari Sibberson of Elkhart and Nancy Orth of Bristol; 10 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; brother Harold (Jean) Tilford of Three Rivers, Mich.; sisters Mary (Ray) Young of Constantine, Mich., and Barbara (Larry) Gracey of Portage, Mich.; as well as several nieces and nephews.

Charlie was a machinist at Elkhart Brass for 41 years, retiring in 1992. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army Air Force and later served in the U.S. Air Force. He was a member of IAM (International Association of Machinists) and was active in the Cleveland Little League as a coach and umpire. Charlie was an avid bowler and fisherman.

A gathering of family and friends will be from 2 to 4 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 28, at Billings Funeral Home, 812 Baldwin St., Elkhart. In honoring his wishes, cremation will follow.

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