John Charles Tilton, age 81, Coatesville (Heritage Lake), passed away Monday morning at his residence. He was born in Rensselaer, IN on October 28, 1938 the son of John and Sophie Sommers Tilton. He had worked as a high school teacher and was also a coach and a mentor. He had also worked in sales and marketing around Chicago. He was a loving father, best friend, loved to write and tell stories. He wrote articles for magazines. His other love was his 1948 Buick Roadster Convertible “Beatrix”. He is survived by his loving wife and best friend – Gayla Lee Tilton; Daughters – Lynn Tilton, Des Plaines, IL, Debbie Tilton, Palatine, IL, and Lori Piccirillo and husband, Jeff, Tucson, AZ; Grandchildren – Patrick Croke, Linderhurst, IL, Ellyn Croke, Dodge City, KS, Nathan Piccirillo, Netherlands, and Jesica Piccirillo, Carlsbad, CA; great-granddaughter – Alicia Croke, Dodge City, KS; Siblings – Helen Pettet, Rensselaer, John Wayne Tilton, Blue Island, IL, and Sue Wheeler, Rice Lake, WI; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded by his parents. Memorial services will be held a later date to be determined. Arrangements are being handled by Bousley Funeral Home, Coatesville.