David Gerard Nilles

David Gerard Nilles, age 87, passed away peacefully on April 6, 2026. He was born on December 14, 1938, in Dubuque, Iowa, to Eugene and Marcella (McPoland) Nilles.

Dave proudly served his country in the United States Army from 1958 to 1964 and went on to build a dedicated career as a journeyman wireman with the I.B.E.W. He was also a proud member of the Eagles Club and his union, where he formed many lasting friendships.

A 1957 graduate of Aquin Catholic High School, Dave met the love of his life, Carol Ann Mullarky, during his school years. The two were united in marriage on April 12, 1958, beginning a lifelong partnership rooted in love, faith, and devotion. They would have celebrated their 68th wedding anniversary this coming Sunday.

Dave was a devoted member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Freeport, Illinois. Together, he and Carol built a loving home and raised four children: Michael (Lulu) Nilles, Elizabeth Meyers, Wendy (Randy) Wilson, and Amy (Tim Rademaker) Kane.

He is lovingly survived by his wife, Carol; his children; brother, Mark Nilles; his sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Joan and Richard Hellmer; his grandchildren, Nichole (Matt) Brunson, Kyle Meyers, Kourtney Meyers, Haley (Cory) Auer, Sidney (Gaven) Kingery, Hannah Martin, Sami (Mack) Byers, and Nicholas (Abby) Kane; and his cherished great-grandchildren, Audrina, Parker, Reese, Bryson, Paisley, Carter, Natalee, Lucas, Seifer, Jaxen, Raiden, Marley, Lucy, and baby Kane, arriving in June. Also surviving are many nieces and nephews.

Dave found great joy in time spent at White Lake where he enjoyed playing golf and going fishing, he also cherished his time in Punta Gorda, Florida. He rarely missed a grandchild’s sporting event and was a proud and devoted veteran. Known for his gift of conversation, Dave could talk to anyone and never missed a chance to connect. Above all, he loved his family deeply. He was known for looking out for his children in his own special way—calling to make sure they were safely in the basement during a tornado watch, reminding them to check their smoke detectors, or asking if they had changed their oil.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his mother-in-law and father-in-law, Audrey and LaVern Mullarky; his sisters, Arlene and Lois; his brothers, Emil, Dale, Roger, and Roland; and his son-in-law, Thomas Meyers.

Dave will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to his family, his strong work ethic, his sense of humor, and the genuine care he showed to everyone he met. He will be deeply missed and forever cherished.

In lieu of flowers a memorial has been established for St. Vincent DePaul in Mr. Nilles memory.