Robert's Obituary

Charles Robert Tillotson

Born in Albuquerque, New Mexico on 09/24/1978

Departed on 07/22/2008 and resided in Albuquerque, NM

TILLOTSON - Charles Robert was born in Albuquerque, NM on Sunday, September 24, 1978, and departed Tuesday, July 22, 2008 as a result of pneumonia. Robert was diagnosed with Burkitt's lymphoma (cancer) in January of this year. Charles Robert Tillotson, or Robert, was born to Charles and Mary (Wilhelm) Tillotson. Robert, as a young child, showed a great aptitude for working with heavy equipment. He learned to drive at an early age, and was able to adapt to different types of machinery quickly. Robert attended New Mexico Tech in order to study the use of heavy machinery further. He went on to work in different kinds of heavy equipment operation in a variety of environments. Robert was also known for his love of animals. He had many pets and also bore a lot of responsibility, along with his sister, for the various livestock that his family owned over the years. In his work, he strove to always deal with the animals in a loving and compassionate manner. Those who knew Robert best, remember him for his fun loving and giving nature. No matter how dismal the circumstances, Robert had a natural way of breaking the tension. Right up to the very end, Robert tried to remain lighthearted and upbeat, often bringing his sister and parents to laughter, despite the difficulty he and his family faced. Also, last year, at Christmas, Robert participated in an event where he rode his motorcycle to benefit Toys for Tots. Robert often opened his home to friends in need and provided them with a place to stay, often at his own expense. His parents and friends were often impressed with his kind and loving nature, no matter the circumstances. Robert's strength of character also spilled into his strength of will. Even at the last, when Robert was on and off life support, his indomitable spirit always broke through. He would often fight through the sedation and try to communicate with his family and friends. In the end, he fought against the cancers and infections that ravaged his body and recovered to a degree that baffled and surprised his physicians. Robert was preceded in death by Mary and John Tillotson, his grandparents. He is survived by his parents, Mary and Charles Tillotson; his sister, Jennifer and brother-in-law, David Pendell of Colorado, and their children, Mary and Benjamin, who affectionately called him Uncle Bob. He is also survived by a half-sister, Devona Kay Shaw and her children; and grandparents, Harvey and Virginia Wilhelm all of Snowflake, AZ. Services will be held Saturday, July 26, 2008, 11:00 a.m. at the LDS Church Building in Pie Town, New Mexico. Friends and family my visit French Mortuary, University Blvd. Chapel, Friday, July 25, 2008 from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 pm.