DAVID ALTON LILYGREN

David Alton Lilygren, 70, passed away September 19, 2021 in Enloe hospital after a short stay.

David was born on December 31, 1950 in Chico California to Allen and Dorothy Lilygren. He attended Rosedale and Capay elementary schools, graduating from Hamilton Union high school (1969) and Butte College.

He was a member of the Cub Scouts, 4H, FFA and enjoyed raising his flock of sheep. He was a great athlete playing on the highschool football and basketball teams, and played drums in the band. David always had fun and kept people laughing with his jokes and pranks.

David served his country by joining the Navy from 1970 to 1974. In that same year he married his high school sweetheart, Phyllis Jean Davis on July 17. They made their home in Hanford California while he was stationed at Lemoore Naval base.

He also spent time on aircraft carriers instructing for

landing and take off. After David’s military service he became a Glenn County Sheriff Deputy from 1976 until retiring in 2003 serving his community in several departments; undercover, homicide, river patrol and others. He was honored at his retirement dinner for his achievements.

After retiring from the police force David enjoyed working 17 years for Rob Silvera ranch driving tractors and bailing hay.

David was well known for his large gardens where he

grew winter and summer vegetables sharing them with family, the senior center and banks in Orland, this was his hobby. He enjoyed hunting and fishing on the Sacramento river with his brother, brother-inlaws, nephews and many friends.

David and Phyllis recently traveled to Tennessee, South Dakota, Idaho, Montana, Washington and the coast.

He is survived by his wife Phyllis, three daughters Brandi Leeck (Marv) Tennessee, Jennifer Cobb Orland, Rebecca Groppi (Steve) Orland. David is known as “Grampi” to 8 beautiful grandchildren; David, Sydney, William, Trinity, Emma, Hannah, Daven and Max.

He was preceded in death by his sister Cheri and is survived by his brother John and sisters Margaret and Connie.

A celebration of life will be held in the springtime. In lieu of flowers please make memorial contributions to Orland Senior Center on 19 Walker Street,

Orland, CA 96963 or make checks payable to the Cheri Pruett scholarship fund, 311 South Villa Avenue, Willows, CA 95988.