Mr Joseph Pierre Lilles

Joseph Pierre Lilles, 83 a native of Mendota, CA passed away June 25, 2021. He attended local schools and graduated from Madera High School Class of 1956. He entered the U.S. Navy and was the Flight Engineer of a P2V Neptune Naval aircraft.

Joe was a farmer of various crops over the years and currently grew Carignan and Thompson Grapes along with Almonds. He was the co-owner of Madera Trucking. Joe joined American Legion Post 11 in Madera and later served as the Post Commander. He was active in leadership in the B.S.A. and served as Asst. Scout Master of Troop 115. Joe was a Founding Leader of the Explorer Motorcycle unit of the B.S.A. in establishing the unit and teaching young men to ride responsibly and safely. He also served as a chaperone for Interact service projects in Mexico.
His jovial thunderous voice, humor and gentile kindness will long be remembered and missed.

Joe is preceded by his parents Joseph and Catherine Lilles, his Brother John and two infant sisters.

He is survived by his loving wife of 42 years Carolyn Lilles of Madera, his Sons, Shawn Lilles and his wife Jennifer of Madera and Nichols Lilles of Madera. His Sister Molly Wadsworth of Chico, CA and Sister in law, Elsie Mathias of Fresno. Joe will be missed by his grandchildren Dillon Hollandbeck, Arianna Lilles, Joseph Lilles and Jessica Lilles.

Visitation will be Tuesday, July 6, 2021 from 3:00 to 6:00 pm at Jay Chapel and a Recitation of the Rosary service to begin at 6:00 pm. also at Jay Chapel, Madera, CA

A Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 9:00 am Wednesday. July 7, 2021 at St. Joachim Catholic Church and burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery in Madera.