John Kern Lilly

John K. Lilly entered the Gates of Heaven on November 21, 2025, at the age of 87.  He requested a private family gathering at Klamath Memorial Park, which will be arranged at a later date.

John was born on July 26, 1938, to John Vernon Lilly and Edna Bertine Lilly.  He grew up working on the family ranch near Keno, Oregon.  He graduated from Henley High School in 1957 and went on to receive his pilot licenses.  He served in the United States Navy as a Radioman aboard the U.S.S. Picking (DD-685), a Flecher class destroyer from 1957-1959.  After Seaman (E-3) Lilly’s discharge, he remained in the Navy Reserves for an additional 10 years.  One of his most enjoyable hobbies included being a Ham Radio operator (call sign W7BXD) and a Ham Radio instructor.  After his time in the Navy, he acquired his helicopter license, which he used for Search and Rescue as well as ranching.  As a professional pilot, John flew as a crop duster, flew for FedEx, and was a corporate pilot for numerous years. He enjoyed being a private pilot his entire life, flying helicopters and his Cessna 195 tail dragger.

John is survived by his wife Linda Lilly, son Vernon Lilly and daughter-in-law Starla Lilly, daughter DeAna Middleton-Lilly, stepson Larry R. Comer and stepdaughter Ginger Flowers and son-in-law Rick Flowers.  He was also blessed with ten grandchildren and fifteen great grandchildren. He is preceded in death, by his sister Sharon Lilly, Karen Lilly, Terri Comer and his parents.

The family would like to express special thanks to Klamath Hospice and contributions in memory of John Kern Lilly may be made to the charity of one’s choice.

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