Eugene F. “Gene” Tilden, 87, of Springfield, MA, beloved husband of Janet (Marsh) Tilden, entered into Eternal Rest on Thursday, July 4, 2019. He was born in Suffield, CT on September 25, 1931, son of the late Fred and Edith (Merrifield) Tilden. Gene grew up in the Thomsonville area of Enfield where he attended school. He proudly served his country for over 20 years until his retirement in December of 1970 as Staff Sergeant in the United States Air Force. Gene was especially devoted to his wife and family and cherished the time he spent with his grandchildren, great grandchildren, and his beloved dogs. He was an avid reader and enjoyed tending his garden. Gene held a special interest in genealogy and was well versed in the nine generations of his family that lived in the area. He also had a love for the homeland of his English bride, and made frequent visits there.
In addition to his loving wife of 62 years, Janet, Gene is survived by his children, Karen Tilden and her husband Steven Grant of Marion, MA, Joy Dion of Rosamond, CA, Cindy Grimaldi and her husband Wayne Grimaldi of Blanford, MA, and Janene Kane and her partner April Achorn of Springfield, 12 grandchildren, and 8 great grandchildren. He was predeceased by his brothers, Fred Tilden and James Tilden; his sisters, Patricia Lynch and Sandra Jorey; his son-in-law Raymond Dion; and his grandson, Samuel Tilden Allen.
In celebration of Gene’s life, a graveside service with military honors will be held on Friday, July 12, at 9:00 am in Thompsonville Cemetery, Pleasant St, and Lafayette St., Enfield, CT 06082. In lieu of flowers, donations in Gene’s memory may be made to Dakin Humane Society, 171 Union St, Springfield, MA 01105, https://www.dakinhumane.org/tribute-donation.html. For online condolences, please visit www.leetestevens.com.