Gerald W. Tilkens

Tilkens, Gerald W. 85 June 06, 1929 Oct. 20, 2014 Lifelong resident of Portland, Gerald "Jerry" Tilkens, was born June 6, 1929, to William and Myrtle Tilkens. After the unexpected passing of his father in 1941, Jerry and his sister, Lavonna, continued to be lovingly raised by their mother, Myrtle, Aunt Hazel and Grandmother McPherson. Before graduating from Roosevelt High School in 1947, Jerry's sister introduced him to her best friend, Helen Thorsness, and romance blossomed. He and his lifelong love, Helen, married in 1949. Jerry joined the Oregon National Guard, working in personnel administration for 10 years, followed by another 10 years as a reservist, retiring with 20 years of service. The move to reservist coincided with the beginning of a long and satisfying career as a partner in a business consulting firm, providing services to medical and dental professionals throughout the Pacific Northwest. Jerry will be remembered for his devotion to duty and keen sense of humor. He loved his daughters and grandchildren very much, often expressing how lucky he was to have such great kids and how proud he was of his grandchildren. Jerry had a passion for snow skiing, fly-fishing and watercolor painting artistry. He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Helen; daughters, Cheryl McNamara (Ron), Susan Dresser (Patrick) and Michele Brean (Bob); nephew, Jim Stevens (Carmen); and grandchildren, Ian O'Guin, Lindsey Brean, Jacqueline O'Guin and Katie Brean. A memorial service for friends and family will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 15, 2014, at Gethsemane Lutheran Church, 11560 S.E. Market St., Portland, OR 97216, followed by refreshments. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Gethsemane Lutheran Church New Building Fund, Providence Hospice or a charity of your choice. Please sign the guest book at: www.anewtradition.com.