How can I fix a steering wheel that can be moved back and forth,up and down about an inch or more, but is still drivable,and the tilt mechanism still works?

Remove the steering column cover and inspect exactly what the problem is. Loose and damaged parts are not too hard to service.

What has probably happened is one of the pivot pins for the tilt system has come loose. Normally, they tend to back out and allow that excessive movement but still seem to function fairly well.
Remove the steering column covers to inspect. If it is just the pivot pin, it can be gently driven back into the pivot once the holes are aligned properly. If you apply inward pressure while jiggling the steering wheel to assist in aligning, you can find where the pin begins to fit and once you're sure it's lined up, gently tap it in until it fits flush.