Memorial service for Clifford Tillema, 65, of Neligh, a devoted husband, father, and proud grandfather, will be 10:30 a.m. Monday, De. 8 at Grace Lutheran Church in Neligh. Burial will be at a later date.
Beyer Snider Memorial Funeral Home of Neligh is handling the arrangements. Cliff died Tuesday, Dec. 2, 2025 at Methodist Hospital in Omaha, Nebraska.
Condolences may be directed to the family at www,beyersnidermemorialfh.com
Clifford William Tillema was born on Aug. 14, 1960 in Norfolk. Cliff grew up in the Hoskins and Winside area where he learned the value of hard work, community, and family values that he carried throughout his entire life.
Cliff spent many years working at John Deere, a place he took great pride in. He was known for his dedication, reliability, and the friendships he formed along the way.
Above all else, Cliff loved his family. His grandchildren were the light of his life, and he never missed a chance to cheer them on, tease them lovingly, or share one of his trademark smiles. His presence brought warmth, humor, and steadiness to every family gathering.
Cliff was not only a wonderful father and grandfather, but a loving and great husband of 45 years. His wife, Bev, was his partner in everything, and he showed his love through his patience, loyalty, and the quiet, everyday ways he cared for his family
Survivors include his wife, Bev Tillema; son, Ryan and Alyssa Tillema, son, Shane and Darleen Tillema, daughter, Sara and fiancé Chris Steskal; grandchildren Rylee, Emmy, Lexy, Rocky and Rex Tillema; sister, Carolyn and Jim Rabe (nieces and nephews); brother-in-law, John Kelly and numerous extended family.
He was preceded in death by his parents. Janice Tillema and Norman Tillema; brother, Craig Tillema and sister, Cheryl Kelly.
