Denzil Terrence Tiltmann

Beloved husband, father, grandfather, and brother, Denzil T. Tiltmann, 80, of Brookfield, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully on January 29, 2025, after a valiant battle with prostate cancer. Denzil was born on February 19, 1944, in East London, South Africa, to Emil and Olga Tiltmann and was one of seven siblings.

Denzil met his wife, Brenda, while working as a stagehand for a ballet performance in which Brenda was dancing. After their children were grown, Denzil and Brenda immigrated to the United States in 2004. Though he always considered South Africa ‘home’, he and Brenda proudly became naturalized U.S. citizens in 2012. On July 5, 2024, Denzil and Brenda celebrated their 56th wedding anniversary.

Denzil enjoyed playing golf, watching Fox News, going to church, and spending time with his family and beloved dog, Chloe. Chloe went everywhere with Denzil and was close to his side during his final days. Along with his wife, Denzil was a devout member of St. Edmund’s Anglican Church and enjoyed the bonds and friendships that he made with the small, close-knit congregation over the years.

Denzil was predeceased by his parents; his sisters, Heather and Lorraine; and his son-in-law, Brett. He is survived by his wife, Brenda; his siblings: Ivan (Gail) Tiltmann, Brian (Dorothy) Tiltmann, Brenda (Stanley) Kruger, Estelle (Theunsen) Botha; his son, Laren (Heather) Tiltmann; daughter, Cheryl Matthews; and son, Neil Rex-Mariller. He is also survived by his seven grandchildren, who lovingly knew him as “Grandpa”, “Gramps” and “Papa” - Chad and Drew Matthews, Cheree (Francois) Kruger and Kyle Rex-Mariller, and Reegan, Reilly and Reese Tiltmann.

Denzil was a kind, generous, and gentle man, with a big heart. When asked recently what was the most important thing he learned in life, he humbly responded “be good to everyone”. That is how Denzil lived his life. He was loved by many and will forever reside in our hearts.

Denzil’s family would like to extend its sincerest gratitude to AngelsGrace Hospice in Oconomowoc for making Denzil’s final days peaceful and comfortable.

A visitation will be held at Holy Apostles Anglican Church (142 Lake St, Pewaukee) on Saturday, February 15th, at 3:00 p.m., until the time of the Mass of the Resurrection at 3:30 p.m.