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Dorothy Tilka Obituary
Dorothy graduated from McCook High School NE and furthered her education at Harbor College CA, where she earned her degree as a Registered Nurse. She specialized as a Psychiatric Nurse, a career that spanned many years at Harbor General Hospital CA and Columbia River Mental Health Services Vancouver WA. Her compassionate nature and dedication to her patients were hallmarks of her career.
She was a devout member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Vancouver, WA, where she participated actively in community services. Dorothy's hobbies included reading, writing, and swimming, activities that reflected her love for continuous learning and staying active.
Dorothy was a loving, cheerful, and kind individual, traits that endeared her to many. She preceded her husband, Wayne (Mike) Tilka, and sons Kevin M. Tilka, Jason P. Vrbas, and Kelly (Joe) Vrbas.
A memorial service will be held in Vancouver, with details to be announced later. The family suggests that in lieu of flowers, contributions be made to the American Cancer Society in Dorothy's memory. Her legacy of kindness and care will continue to inspire those who knew her.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
4 Entries
Kevin Tilka
August 20, 2025
I'll love you forever, mom! You taught me empathy, honesty, responsibility & dedication, and how to put love into everything I do and everyone I'm with. You read to me every night and discussed with me all the finer points and morals. I'll forever miss our quiet afternoons and evenings, sitting on the couch and watching the Biography channel together while you folded our clothes on the coffee table. You were my first and best world. You were really good at seeing people for who they were on the inside. You saw me every day.
I miss you so bad, and wish I could hold you again all the time. I love you, I love you, I love you, I love you, and I will see you in heaven!
Deborah M Miller
August 2, 2025
From
the moment I met Dorothy I felt her caring energy. She was a curious woman that also showed humor and care to others. She will be missed.,Deborah Miller and Star DeBolt.
Kent Middour
July 31, 2025
It's always hard to say goodbye to a friend, especially someone as wonderful as Dorothy. It was a pleasure working with her and getting to know her. Til we meet again on the other side.
Kelly Vrbas
July 31, 2025
Loved by family and friends, your positive influence and memory will live forever.
Rest easy, Mom.
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