Gary D. Tillman
Gary Dean Tillman, 78, of Lincoln, NE, passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, October 23, 2025. Gary was born in Fremont, NE, on September 30, 1947, to Boyd and Helen Tillman. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend.
The Tillman family moved to Huskerville in 1953, where they made many lifelong friends. Gary graduated from Lincoln High School in 1965. Following graduation, he entered military service and served as a combat medic and rifleman in Vietnam. Following his military service, Gary was employed with the City of Lincoln Public Works Department, and retired in 2008 as a Storm Sewer Foreman.
Gary married his loving wife, Jane Broekemeier, on November 25, 1989. Together they created a life full of love, laughter, joy, and dedication to their faith.
One of Gary’s favorite joys was spending time with his daughter, Cari. Enthralled from the moment she was born, together they created many cherished memories. He loved taking her on movie dates and as she grew older, to the casino. They liked playing the Buffalo Games together, even though Cari normally won.
Gary was affectionately known as “Pa” by his beloved grandchildren. After retirement, Pa enthusiastically served as taxi driver, aviary expert, fly fishing instructor, and role model for his grandchildren.
Gary enjoyed fly fishing immensely. His favorite phrase was “It’s a good day to fish.” Gary lived up to that phrase any chance he could get, his excitement contagious as he was joined by his son-in-law and grandchildren.
Gary is preceded in death by his father, Boyd; mother, Helen; brothers Harold, Gerald, and Gene; and sister, Rhonda Bailey. He is survived by his wife, Jane; daughter Cari (George) Brundage; grandchildren, Hailey and Elijah Brundage; brother, Ron; sisters, Charlene Donohue and Peggy Tillman.
Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, November 8, at 12:00pm, at Christ Lincoln: 4325 Sumner Street, Lincoln, NE, 68506. Visitation with family available at 11:00am. Lunch reception directly following service. Interment to be held at a later date in West Point, NE.
Memorials are to the family for later designation.
To leave a condolence please use the form below.
Funeral Home assisting is Aspen Mortuary, 4822 Cleveland Avenue, Lincoln, NE 68504. To view an on-line obituary or email condolences please visit Aspen Mortuary’s website at www.aspenaftercare.com.
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Condolences for Gary D. Tillman
Dear Jane & Family: My deepest condolences are extended to all of you at this time on Gary’s passing, as well as my thoughts and prayers. Psalm 23 and Psalm 46:1
We are sorry to hear of Gary’s passing. “Blessed are the clean of heart for they shall see God” Mt. 5.
Jane, Jeff and I are so sorry to hear of Gary’s passing. He was truly one of the kindest men at LTU and we remember him with fondness.
Jane sorry to here the passing of Gary he was one of the best boss I had it was pleasure to work with him my condolences to you
“Another Lincoln High Job Well Done.”
Pa touched our families lives so much over the years. Our grandson Tobey considered him our Pa as well. Such treasured memories from our times at Good Shepherd. We love you and your family. We are so sorry to hear of Gary’s passing. Praying your precious memories bring you comfort during this time. Love Rich and Angie Small
My sympathy to Jane Cari and the family!
Gary was a very nice guy! Always had a smile! Loved that you had your special times at Cooks! ❤️. My heart goes out to all of you!
So sorry for your loss Jane and Family. Gary was a wonderful neighbor, and we are so lucky to have known him. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
My heartfelt condolences to Jane, Family and friends, in Gary’s passing. Gary and I met first in our work with PWU. He was always ready to offer insight, take initiative, extend respect to others and move forward with the work at hand. I so value our conversations about our mutual passion for fly fishing. and discussions of his military service.