THIS WAS THEIR DAY
Johnny Tillemans passed away in 2014, but his legacy lives on with the annual chili cookoff held during Boxelder Bug Days in his name.
This year marked the 25th anniversary of the chili cookoff, which originated during the Taunton Centennial in 1999.
Tilleman’s four daughters, Lu Hinz, Carey Doyscher, Deb Gilbertson and Sandy Doyscher, as well as other family members, have kept the popular chili cook-off going over the years. Their brother, Joe, was killed in a motorcycle accident outside of Minneota in 1971.
In honor of the 25th anniversary of the chili cookoff, which was officially named the Johnny Tillemans Memorial Chili Cook-off in 2019, the four daughters were selected to be Grand Marshalls of the Bug Days Parade this year. Sandy took the wheel of the convertible with Lu beside her, and Deb and Carey riding atop the back seat. "It was so much fun,” said Carey. “It was a great opportunity to see all of the community support.”
Throughout the years, the number of cooks has varied, but this year’s number topped them all as family and friends honored Johnny and Dottie Tillemans for the 25th anniversary.
All proceeds for the chili cookoff go to Prairie Home Hospice and Community Care. This year, Jeremy Friedrichs, who had won this chili cookoff the two previous years, and his wife Sharon, from Alexandria Homes, Inc., have matched the amount of over $700 raised from this year’s cookoff, for a total of over $1,400.
Since 2012, the cookoff has donated over $4,200 to Prairie Home Hospice.
DJ Prellwitz organized the event for many years until stepping down in 2018. Marketing management from Prairie Home Hospice and Community Care now organize the cookoff.
The chili cooks involved donate the ingredients for their recipe at their own expense each year, as well as their time. They begin cooking early in the morning.
Jeremy’s brother, Josh Friedrichs, was the Judge’s Choice for best chili recipe this year. Carey Doyscher was second and Bill Doyscher third. Twin sisters Danaca Moorse and Deanna Lessman were chosen as the People’s Choice winner. The Deb Gilbertson family won for best decorated table.
“We would like to thank everyone for supporting the chili cookoff and hospice,” said Carey. “It’s a great honor for mom and dad.”