Ted C. VanTilburg– passed away peacefully following a strong and intense fight with illness, with his loving wife by his side, at Lightways Hospice Home Monday, August 5, 2024. Age 52 years.
Survived by his loving and devoted wife with whom he shared 33 wonderful years, Wendy VanTilburg (nee Bato), his parents Terry and Carol VanTilburg, mother-in-law Gail Bato, his brother Todd VanTilburg, brother-in-law Bob Bato Jr.; nephews Andrew Bato, Mason Bato, Tom (Ashley) VanTilburg, Tony (Micki) VanTilburg and niece Allison (James) Kroesch. Numerous great nieces and nephews also survive.
Preceded in death by his brother Thomas Kevin VanTilburg at 18 months and his father-in-law Bob Bato Sr.
Ted graduated from Plainfield High School and went on to earn his Associates Degree. He owned and operated his own business, Revitalize Home Improvements, Inc. for many years. Ted truly enjoyed helping people and often did small jobs for free. His kindness, skills, work ethic and perfectionist nature earned him a loyal and ever expanding customer base. As a self-proclaimed “jack of all trades, master of none”, he modestly fixed, fabricated or built anything a customer needed. Friends often said Ted had the Midas touch, as everything he touched turned to gold. In addition to building and renovating homes, Ted enjoyed, and had a talent for building custom cabinetry, furniture and custom art pieces.
Ted was also an accomplished musician and signed artist. Together with many talented friends he put out numerous albums over the years. While drums were his main passion, he also played guitar and bass guitar, wrote lyrics and did vocals on occasion. Ted also pursued many physical and recreational activities. He enjoyed off-roading, whether it be on his dirt bike, snowmobile, mountain bike or BMX bike. Jet skiing, water skiing, paddle boarding, kayaking, swimming, cross country and downhill skiing, hockey and any form of exercise were also some of his favorite things to do. What Ted enjoyed most was spending time with his family. He will be remembered most for his caring and fun-loving nature. Ted was fiercely loyal and loving. He went out of his way to make people feel loved, comforted and special. He enjoyed arranging surprises for people with his amazing “Ted finesse”. His sense of humor was loved by all, his drive and determination admired by all. Ted will be deeply missed. His loss leaves a void that is impossible to fill. Memories of his loving, larger than life personality will continue to bring comfort to his loved ones.
A celebration of Life will take place at a later date. Memorials in Ted’s name to Lightways Hospice will be appreciated. Arrangements entrusted to the Carlson Holmquist Sayles Funeral Home & Crematory.
