Obituary of Donald Gordon Rilling

Donald Gordon Rilling, 77, of St Marys, Georgia, passed away on July 12, 2023, after a short illness. Farmer, as he was known to his friends and family, was born on July 17, 1945, in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, to Lucy and Gordon Rilling. After graduating from Berlin High School in 1963, Don went on to earn his degree from the University of Wisconsin - Oshkosh in 1972. He had a successful career with Merck Pharmaceuticals' Ag division before retiring in 2002 after many years of service. Don was very involved in promoting the large animal industry in Colorado. He was a founding member of the CSU Beef Club and served two terms on the Executive Committee of the Colorado Livestock Association. Don was also a founding member of the Allied Industry Council. In addition to his accomplishments, Don had a deep passion for golf and spent countless hours on the golf course, enjoying the game, camaraderie and challenges that golf provided. He is survived by his two sons, Daniel Rilling and Douglas Rilling of Longmont, Colorado; his stepdaughter Melissa Ross, husband Brandon, and his granddaughter Anna Ross of Atlanta, Georgia; his spouse Janelle Rilling; and many cherished cousins and extended family members. Don will be remembered as a great man, father, grandfather, and friend, who had a profound impact on the lives of those around him. He will be deeply missed by all those whose lives he touched. In lieu of flowers we ask you make a donation in Dons name to First Tee, The Cancer Society, or Community Hospice & Palliative Care of Fernandina Beach, Fl