Donald “Don” Victor Tillberg , 87, of Salina passed away on Thursday, March 24, 2022, at Presbyterian Manor, in Salina, Kansas. He was born on the family farm west of Salina, on August 29, 1934, to Andrew and Esther (Shublom) Tillberg. Don graduated from Bavaria High School and Brown Mackie College receiving an associate’s degree in business. While working at the Elk’s Country Club, Don met the love of his life, Danette “Dannie”. They were married on August 15, 1970, in Salina.

Don was an active member of Immanuel Lutheran Church. He was an avid bowler and bowled on Wednesday nights on the NBA Lefties team. He enjoyed several men’s coffee groups that met at Smolan, Hedville, and Immanuel Lutheran Church.

Don was employed at the Elk’s Country Club and retired from the Salina Municipal Golf Course after 28 years. He also farmed full-time west of Salina, with his brothers Carl and Norman.

Don is preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Carl and Norman; sisters, Ruby Tillberg and Arlene Metzger; and great grandson, Landon Knight.

He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Dannie, at Presbyterian Manor, Salina; sister, Gertrude Chaney of Salina; and children Michael Tillberg (Melanie) of Salina, Kathy Tillberg-Sweeney of Salina, and Jim Tillberg (Jennifer) of Lindsborg.

Grandpa was blessed with six grandchildren – Laura Houchin (Joshua), Jason Tillberg, Sara Duncan (Jeff), Jessica Sweeney, Annie Metzger (Logan), and Adam Tillberg.

Don was also known as Papa to Great Grandchildren; Henry, River, Finnley, Emry, Noah, Natalie, and Lila.

Don has a large extended family and many friends who will miss his contagious laugh and smile.

Funeral services will be held at 11a.m. Tuesday, March 29, at Immanuel Lutheran Church, 255 South 7th St., Salina, with burial in Gypsum Hill Cemetery. Visitation will be on Monday, March 28, 4-8 p.m. at Ryan Mortuary, and the family will receive visitors from 5-7 p.m.

Memorials gifts can be made to the Donald Tillberg Memorial Fund in care of Ryan Mortuary.