Margie Luella Tillotson

Margie L. Tillotson, 96, of Nashwauk, MN, passed away peacefully with family by her side on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, at Chestnut Grove Assisted Living in Virginia, MN. She was born in Backus, MN, on January 1, 1930, to Earl and Mayme (Hamacher) Metzer. While growing up, Margie's family moved around for work and as she got a little older, it became her responsibility to stay home and look after her younger siblings. By age 15, her family had set roots in the Pengilly and Nashwauk area where she began working at a local bakery and cafe. Eventually, while working at the cafe, she met Bruce Tillotson, the love of her life, while he was passing through for work. They were joined in marriage on May 19, 1951. Together they moved to Bemidji, MN, where they started their family before deciding to move back to Nashwauk making it their forever home. Margie was an outstanding homemaker and caregiver as she raised 10 kids on their family farm. She always provided for her family with an open home, along with her wonderful cooking and baking. Margie had a huge and beautiful garden. She canned various vegetables, of course, green beans, and made her own ice cream. She crocheted, embroidered and sewed, making quilts and clothing for her children. Margie loved to read and was an active member in her church being part of the sewing circle and ladies' Bible study.

Margie is survived by her children Terry (Kathy) Tillotson, Jack (Anna) Tillotson, Dick (Florenda) Tillotson, Vicky (Kelvin) Schjenken, Brett (Saunda) Tillotson, Brenda Walton, Melissa (Norm) Hooper, Patricia Mattila, Paul (Amy Place) Tillotson and Pauline (Hector) Varela, sister-in-law Doris, numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren and great great grandchildren along with many nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her parents, husband, eight siblings and sons-in-law Todd Welch, Ivan Walton and James Mattila.

The family would like to extend a huge thank you to the staff at Chestnut Grove and Moments Hospice for their amazing care.

There will be a funeral service and celebration of life held for Margie at 11:30 AM, on Thursday, June 18th, 2026, at the Cloverdale Hall Community Center located just north of Nashwauk. Visitation will take place from 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM. Interment will follow the service at the Nashwauk Cemetery.