Roscoe R. Tillea 1892-1950

TILLEA, MORRISSEY

Posted By: Merllene Andre Bendixen (email)
Date: 8/2/2011 at 21:58:49

R. R. Tillea, Well Known Barber, Dies
Suffered Stroke Last Monday
R. R. Tillea, 58, longtime proprietor of the Gardston barber shop in Estherville, died yesterday at 9 p.m. in Holy Family hospital as result of a paralytic stroke suffered Monday. He had suffered an earlier stroke in May, but apparently had recovered satisfactorily. He never regained consciousness from the time he was stricken Monday until his death last night.

Tillea was born Feb. 6, 1892, in Ogden, and received his education there. He came to Estherville about 35 year ago, working as a barber for several years for Charles Dayton, before going into service with the American forces in World War One.

In France, he was severely wounded in action and lost his right eye in the Meuse-Argonne battles, and was awarded the purple heart medal and ribbon. He served overseas for two years.

Returning to Estherville, he bought the Gardston barbershop, of which he has been owner ever since.

In Feb. 12, 1920, he was married to Nell Morrissey of Estherville, and the couple lived in Estherville since that date. He was a member of St. Patrick’s Catholic church, the American Legion and VFW posts in Estherville and of the Izaak Walton league. He was active in all phases of wildlife conservation work in the Emmet county area.

Survivors include his wife and three sons; John, 29, in the United States army at Fort Lawton, Seattle, Wash.; Ralph, 25, at home, and Lawrence, 20, recently enlisted in the navy.

Both John and Ralph served with the United States army during World War Two. Lawrence enlisted in the navy Sept. 20, and left a week ago for San Diego. All three have returned home to attend services.

Rosary services will be recited tonight and tomorrow night at 9 p.m. at the Tillea home, 402 North Eighth street, with the requiem mass Wednesday at 9:30 a.m. at St. Patrick’s Catholic church.

Friends who wish to pay their last respects may call at the Tillea home.

Pallbearers will be J. L. Hoye, Guy Tibbets, Floyd Gustafson, Jerry Wegs, Stanley Smith and Charles Nourse. (Estherville Daily News, Estherville, IA, October 2, 1950)