Patricia “Pat” Tillman
Patricia A. “Pat” (Burke) Tillman, a loving Mother, devoted Grandmother, and cherished friend, passed away unexpectedly on October 6, 2026, at the age of 84. She was born on April 15, 1942, in Antigo WI, to Ardith (Eaton) Burke and George A “Al” Burke.
She leaves behind a family and community deeply heartbroken by her loss.
Pat married Edwin J. “Charly” Tillman in 1960, and they made a life in the Three Lakes area for more than 60 years, raising four children there. While Pat was a homemaker most of her life, many will remember her as a waitress at the Alpine Haus and Cindy’s Country Café in Three Lakes for many of those years.
Pat had a heart that made everyone feel welcome and loved. Her home was always open to family and friends, and her famous sugar cookies became a sweet reminder of the love she shared with everyone around her. She greeted each day with warm hugs for the children, a knowing look for the women and a witty remark for anyone who dared to tease her. She enjoyed cooking, baking and family gatherings. She was a strong believer of Angels and made sure all the family grave stones were properly honored every spring by placing flowers on them.
She was strong, sassy, and fiercely protective of the people she loved. Those closest to her know they could always count on her loyalty, honesty, and unforgettable sense of humor. Pat had a presence that could light up a room, a confidence that was uniquely hers, and that familiar half-smile that made you feel part of a special joke.
Her absence will be felt by everyone fortunate enough to have known her, by the love she gave, the memories created, and the strength she carried will remain in our hearts forever. Though saying good-bye is never easy, her legacy of love, kindness, and a little sass will live on through everyone whose life she touched.
Pat was preceded in death, by her parents; beloved husband, Charly; and her brother, Michael Burke.
She is survived by her children, Kathy (Mark), Sandy (Randy), Charly, and Lynn (Joe). Her grandchildren, Chad (Ela), Christie (Don), Amanda, Monty (Jane), Dani, Matthew, Mandi and Andrew; great-grandchildren, Isabell, Emmitt, and Anna.
Please join us on October 23, 2026, at Gaffney-Busha Funeral home in Eagle River to celebrate her life. Visitation from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., with service at 11:00 a.m. Followed by, burial in the Three Lakes Cemetery with a light luncheon held the Reiter Center in Three Lakes. Arrangements by Gaffney-Busha Funeral Home, Eagle River. Online condolences may be expressed at gaffney-busha.com
