TILLAPAUGH, Jon Edwin. - b. January 9, 1948 - February 27, 2021

[patyrn]

Jon Edwin "Big Jon" Tillapaugh, age 73, of Grenola, Kansas, passed away February 27, 2021.  He was born January 9, 1948 in Detroit, Michigan to Kenneth and Lorraine (Johns) Tillapaugh. 

When Jon was young, he moved to Arizona but continued to visit Michigan and spend his summers there.  In 1968, he enlisted in the United States Army, serving his country for two years.  After serving, he moved back to Arizona where he owned his own business.  He primarily finished concrete but also did some construction jobs.  Being a jack-of-all-trades, he owned his own sawmill and built log furniture and tons of woodworking projects. 

In the late 1970s, Jon married Carol Tillapaugh.  Together they had four children.  Although they divorced after 17 years together, they continued to stay very close friends.  In 2008, Jon moved to Grenola, Kansas to be close to his kids.  He continued his woodworking and really enjoyed spending time with his children and grandchildren.  He made many friends over the years and will be dearly missed by everyone that knew him.

Jon is survived by his children, Preston (Jessica Norris)Tillapaugh of Grenola, Kansas, Ty Tillapaugh of Grenola, Kansas, Shannon Tillapaugh of Howard, Kansas, Lori Tillapaugh of Howard, Kansas, and Tiah Tillapaugh of Apache Junction, Arizona; sister, Jan McDade of Mesa, Arizona; grandchildren, Taivyn, Cailey, Jaicey, Uriah, Nevaeh, Gabe, Kira, Tuff, Tessa, and Avery; great-grandchild, Airion; several nieces and nephews; and tons of friends and loved ones.

Per Jon's instructions, cremation has been requested.  Jon's family will be holding a Celebration of Life on Saturday, March 27, 2021 at 2:00 p.m. at the Grenola Community Hall in Grenola, Kansas.  Memorial contributions can be made to the Elk County 4-H Council and can be mailed to or left with the funeral home.  Services have been entrusted to Countryside Funeral Home, 206 E. Washington, Howard, Kansas 67349.

(taken from the Countryside Funeral Home website)