Dr. William LeLand Tilgner

Dr. William LeLand Tilgner, 80, of North Platte, passed away Nov. 11, 2011, at his home. He was born Sept. 18, 1931, to William Fritz and Goldie Adaleyn of Gypsum, Kan. He attended school in Gypsum, Kan., went on to Kansas State University and completed his doctor in Veterinary Medicine. He practiced for one and half years in Salina, Kan., then joined the United States Department of Agriculture in meat and poultry inspection in Wichita, Kan., for 16 years, going on to Dodge City, Kan., for two years and then North Platte, for 18 years where he was supervisor of western Nebraska meat and veterinary plants.Bill was a member of the Bethel Church where he was an active usher. He belonged to the Gideons, was a Bible Distributor and also a member of the Salvation Army, NARF and the Tree Board. His hobbies included collecting antiques and furniture refinishing. He was a master gardener and excellent handyman.

Survivors include his wife, Velda, of North Platte; daughters, Julie Ann (Robert) Gentry, of Richardson, Texas, Susan Lea Latta, of Lincoln, and Jan (Brian) Vineyard, of North Platte; grandchildren, Krista Gentry, Robert "Rocky" Gentry II, Chad Gentry, William Gentry, Katie Vineyard, Maggie Vineyard and Cassidy Vineyard; great-grandson, Carter Aldridge; and a brother, Richard Tilgner, of Salina, Kan. He was preceded in death by his parents. Memorials are suggested to Bethel Church or Gideons International and online condolences may be shared at adamsswanson.com.