Timothy Eugene Lillich

Feb 26, 1965 — Sep 28, 2026

Overland Park, Kansas

Timothy Eugene Lillich. Photo courtesy of Koons-Russell Funeral Home

Timothy (Tim) Eugene Lillich died at age 61 on September 28, 2026, in Overland Park, KS.

Tim was born to Eugene and Amy Lillich on February 26, 1965, in Sterling, CO. In 1976, the family moved to Goodland, KS. Tim graduated from Colby Community College and Kansas State University, majoring in Mathematics.

Following his college graduation, Tim moved to Olathe, KS. Despite the distance, He also continued to help his father with the family farm near Bird City, KS.

Tim later enlisted in the Army Reserve. He earned the rank of Sergeant. He served for three years before being called to active duty in 2003 in support of Operation Enduring Freedom/Iraqi Freedom. Tim was stationed in Kuwait as part of Motor Transport Operations. He drove a HET (heavy equipment transport), braving long drives from Kuwait into Iraq to deliver necessary equipment. Tim took pride in his service and in his skills of taking care of those enormous vehicles, with tires taller than himself.

Tim never married nor had children. He poured out his love and compassion on his nieces, friends, and animals. A long line of pets paraded through his life. His dogs included: Prince, Lucky, Rocky, Tucker, Apollo, Theoden, Polly, and Phantom. His cats included Cocoa, Abby, Congo, Nick, Titus, Simba, Tux, and Tobasca. He is survived by his pets Phantom, Titus, Simba, and Tobasca.

One of Tim's passions was music. He owned a huge collection of CDs, covering many different genres, collected throughout his life. His particular favorite was Billy Joel.

Tim was active in politics, serving as Republican Precinct Committeeman on multiple occasions.

In addition to animals, music, and politics, Tim enjoyed cooking, cars, board games, puzzles, and just being with his friends.

Many experienced Tim's caring, compassion, and sensitivity. He was always willing to help a friend in need.

Tim was independent and determined, continuing to carry on whatever personal business he could still manage from his bed despite the limitations his illness, ALS, placed on him.

He is survived by his sister, Susan Clement (John), nieces, Rose and Catherine (all of Olathe, KS), maternal Uncle Elias Edward Schnegelberger (of Raleigh, NC), and multiple cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Eugene Arlis Lillich and Amelia Bertha Lillich (nee Schnegelberger).

Memorial contributions may be made to the Paralyzed Veterans of America, ALS Association or to the Disabled Veterans of America and may be left at the services.