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Timothy Shea Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Timothy Shea
Sponsored by Ruth MacKay-Shea, loving wife, best friend & soul mate.
Johnny flanagan
December 4, 2021
Really glad to get this reminder of our dear friend, Tim. Hard to believe it´s been 10 years. Wow! Looking, again, at the obit, I´d forgotten just how much traveling the two of you had done, Ruth. What a partnership!
Well, he´s missed, for sure.
An old friend was in town last week, and we were reminiscing about Tim and another old friend, Wayne Williams, who passed away a couple of years ago. The two of them were a hoot together.
My best to everybody, and much love to you, Ruth!
MARTIN Keena
December 4, 2020
Marty Keena here... If one is lucky, during there lifetime, they experience a presence that helps define their own path. Tim was one of those people for me. Timely conversations and his empathetic heart propelled me forward when I was stuck. I recently rummaged thru old pictures that sparked many smiles. There was Tim with Kevin Logan, Scott Phelps and other members of The Laners intramural basketball team. I am recalling our times when you guys visited DC and me SF. I say his name...
Laurie Reiner
December 4, 2020
Forever in our hearts. I'll never forget how you helped me transport donations from my mother's apartment 10 years ago after she had passed. One item was not acceptable everywhere, but we found a home for it! We miss you. You would enjoy seeing our deer and javelinas!
John Flanagan
December 4, 2019
Hi Ruth, ironically, Tim has been on my mind lately. Not sure if it's because the 9'ers are going gangbusters, or if it's just something in the air.
Read through some of the old posts on this website...wonderful!
Tim is missed. He was a great guy...a great friend. You're damn swell yourself, Ruth!
love, johnny flan xo
Laurie Reiner
December 4, 2019
Dear Tim, you live on in our hearts. We miss you. God bless you in Heaven, and God bless Ruth who loves you dearly..
Robert Darryl Wallace
December 4, 2019
Continue to lovingly Rest In Peace my friend.
May God lovingly watch over you, and may He also continue to lovingly watch over your beloved Ruth. ❤
Your very special Earthly presence is truly missed.
Sharon MacKay
August 2, 2012
I was shocked to hear that Tim had passed away. Ron and I were in Grand River last summer and drove by Angus's old house but no was was around. So very sorry Ruth. I only read the obituary tonight (Aug. 2/12) Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Chili Bill
April 1, 2012
We partied in the kitchen, the living room, the garage and even the alley. Lots of good food, drinks, music, camaraderie and snappy repartee. I was always so envious of your travels around the globe and if there was one person I would definitely have enjoyed touring with it would have been Mr.T. I wish we'd seen more of each other in the later years. Lots of memories!!
Henry Ladner
March 25, 2012
Hey Ruth,
You have no idea how the loss of Tim hit me. My old colledge buddy...the inspiration for my harmonica classic "Blowin' into Willi" Tim and I and Scott Phelps,Kevin Logan, Steve Aufderheide. What times! I was sure that there were many more to come. When I retire this year Tim was a certain destination. I'll never forget the life in his eyes. I hope to continue on for him,in some way. Henry
Ty Richardson
February 8, 2012
Dear Ruth,
Kelly shared your sad news with me. I'm so sorry to hear of your sudden loss, but am glad that Tim did not suffer in his going.
You were both so good to me and Kelly; I enjoyed the time we got to spend together and have many good memories of you two--visiting, listening to stories, looking at photos, hangin' with Moses... I'm very glad I got to play a part in your circumnavigation of the globe, too. Traveling vicariously with you was pretty cool.
My best wishes to you on the next leg of your trip.
Love,
Ty
thalia marcoux
February 5, 2012
Dear Ruth,
I am so sorry to hear about Tim. It must be so hard for you now. My sincere sympathies for you, and all of Tim's family and friends.
With Love,
Thalia
Stephen Robitaille
January 17, 2012
Dear Ruth,
I was deeply saddened to learn of Tim's untimely and sudden passing. And as I read this wonderful piece that articulated your life together, it was so heartwarming to see the grand adventure that you took together, and to learn about the rich and rewarding family ties that I am sure will sustain you through this most difficult time.
I wish you all the best going forward, and Godspeed in your healing.
With love,
Stephen Robitaille
Oakland, CA
January 16, 2012
Such a shock. So glad we caught up with you both in SF last October - a fabulous night of great food and music with Tim in top form. We'll think of Tim everytime we hear 'Rockin' in the Free world'.
Regards,
Cameron & Janette Jeffs,
Brisbane, Australia
January 5, 2012
Dear Ruth- My heart breaks for your loss of Tim. I wish I had the chance to have met him. He truly seemed like a wonderful man. I know that you will treasure your memories with him forever. Andrea Spillane
January 2, 2012
Dear Ruth,
I am so sorry about your lost. Please accept my condolences. I know no word can make you feel better. Please be strong and knowing my thoughts and prayers with you and your family.
Tracy Thai,
Susan Wilson
January 2, 2012
I'll always remember the energy and enthusiasm that radiated from Tim in a bright, engaging way that included everyone in the room. No doubt he is connecting with a source that is glad to have him where his spirit will shine back to us through time and space.
Irene Earle-Rice
December 27, 2011
Dearest Ruth,
I have been at a loss for words since you called. I keep thinking of the wonderful time that I spent with you both the last time I was in San Francisco. We watched the final two games of the 2004 World Series, and although it wasn't the Giants Tim cheered with me as the Sox broke the curse.
I have always felt that you two lived the other half of my life - the half that traveled the world and had amazing experiences. Tim told such wonderful stories of your travels and took such wonderful photos. But most of all, I remember how much Tim adored you - truly epic! You were truly soul mates in every sense.
My heart is with you; you are in my thoughts constantly. He will always be with us in our hearts.
Love,
Irene (and Paul)
Candace Crockett
December 24, 2011
Dear Ruth, My thoughts have been with you for days. My memories of you and Tim and the good times you had together are strong and happy. He will be remembered and his life treasured.
Much love - Candace
December 23, 2011
Dear Ruth, There really are no words to say how we felt about Tim. When Laura was very close to drowning at Pt. Michaud, It was Tim who was in the water saving Laura. I can never forget this. Tim was always so upbeat, the smile he radiated made one feel so very loved!! We so very much enjoyed our afternoon at your house on the East Side, listening to Bob Dylan and sharing life experiences!!
May God be with you at this time and forever!
xoxo Susan and Steve
Catherine Dunham
December 20, 2011
Dear Ruth, I will always remember Tim as a wonderful wide-eyed, open-minded, and open-hearted individual. I still wear almost daily the silver snake chain necklace and bangle bracelet that I purchased from you both after one of your trips to India, and it holds special memories now more than ever. My heart is with you Ruth, and I'm sending you wishes of comfort, peace and love. - Catherine Dunham
December 20, 2011
Dear Ruth,
Deepest sympathies and love on your great loss. Tim was a special person and wonderful husband. I know you had an incredible bond together and will cherish his memory forever.
Sylvia
Susan Hall
December 20, 2011
Dear Ruth, I only met Tim a few times and was instantly aware of the connection between the two of you. And in all the stories from your travels the love and affection was abundantly evident. Know that you are in my thoughts and I'm sending good energy to you from my heart. I look forward to getting together in the new year.
Best, Susan (Hall)
December 19, 2011
Dear Ruth, sending deepest condolence to you.I never met Tim but he sounds like he was a pretty fantastic guy. So very sorry for your loss. Love and Hugs, Norma ( Cameron)
Cherie Raciti
December 19, 2011
Dear Ruth, Please accept my sincere condolences. Although I did not know Tim well, I felt like the tales of your trips together made me realize your special relationship and commitment to each other.
Cherie Raciti
December 18, 2011
Sorry to hear of your loss to the entire family and extended family and friends of Tim Shea. Sincerely Michael Shaughnessy, Oceanside Ca.
December 18, 2011
Iam so deeply saddened by my old friend passing. We were constant companions growing up in the old neighborhood. I haven't seen Tim in awhile, but I always looked forward to seeing him again. I will miss his incredible sense of humor and cherish what he gave to me as a child. Your friend forever, Bob Cherrier
Bikash sainju
December 16, 2011
Ruth, I am recalling the memory, when youand Tim visited kathmandu.
You and Tim have always been in our heart, I missed him so much.
Ruth You better take care yourself.
Tyler & Tim, Nevada 2010
Ruth MacKay-Shea
December 16, 2011
Teresa Dziadur, Anna Kozubek
December 15, 2011
Dear Ruth,
Please accept our sincere condolences, may the Love of family and friends carry you through this grief. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Teresa & Anna
P.S
We miss you on the running track.
jeff grove
December 15, 2011
i always marveled at the depth of care you two shared. i feel that what you had with tim was something very rare. i truly hope ruth that if and when you feel alone that you can cast into those times you shared with tim and pull out the sustaining warmth of that exceptional bond to carry you through.
Paul M. & Tim ca. 6 yrs old
Ruth MacKay-Shea
December 14, 2011
Jane Eiseley
December 14, 2011
Ruth, what a terrible shock. I am so glad I knew Tim, and you. Love and best wishes.
Pat Ladner
December 14, 2011
Dearest Ruth, In reading the beautiful, heartfelt messages, I am remembering the precious moments I got to spend with you and Tim. Far away in miles, but close within in spirit. And there Tim will remain with you and all of us who were fortunate enough to call him friend. Love and more love to you.
rudi rughoonundon
December 14, 2011
Tim was my friend.
We spent countless hours at Maxfield's House of Caffeine talking about our personal lives, the neighborhood, sports and politics (one of our favorite topics). Our little philosopher's club will never have another member like him.
Tim attended my US citizenship ceremony. We toasted Champagne together the night that Barack Obama was elected president of the United States. We were at the Kilowatt together when the San Francisco Giants won the world series. I am sad that I will not get to experience more such events with him.
Tim loved Ruth and he would always make sure to point out to us ("the younger guys") how attractive she still is and how lucky he was to be with her. One of our acquaintances described them as 2 lovebirds on a tree branch which was very apt given their mutual love of nature.
Tim, you are hugely missed.
Nicole Clark
December 13, 2011
Ruth, I'm so very sorry to hear of your loss. There are few words that can be said to truly console you, as a loss with this gravity is simply devastating. You are so very fortunate to have shared the kind of love with Tim that makes life worth living, someone who showed you what love truly is. Please know that you have so many of us surrounding you with love and support, and that you can lean on us when your days are darkest. I wish you peace and comfort on your journey of healing, and hope that you will find solace soon.
All my love,
Tim - Vesuvio's, North Beach 1976
Ruth MacKay-Shea
December 12, 2011
Mario Laplante
December 12, 2011
Dear Ruth, I'm terribly sorry to hear of your lost. Tim seemed always so happy and enjoyed showing how much he cared about you. I'm thinking of you with affection and deep sympathy.
Paul and Margie Pratchenko
December 12, 2011
Ruth:
We know it was a much better world with Tim in it, and hold you both in our thoughts. Our sincere sympathy and love to you. There simply are no words...
Mark Johnson
December 12, 2011
Much love to Ruth, Tim's family and friends, from your extended family in the SFSU art department - where we have spent so much of our professional life. Tim's wry humor and good-spirited warmth was always a most welcome asset to our events - and became a part of all of our lives.
Queenie Cheng
December 12, 2011
Dear Ruth,
Every breath, every foot-step, every thought, every feeling, every up and down... Tim had been there to share them with you and he will always be so. You're not alone, Ruth! You are really one lucky gal to have a wonderful 35 years of love with your soul mate. Be strong and take good care of yourself for Tim. Open that little window when you're ready. With deepest sympathy!
Richard Mann
December 12, 2011
Ruth:
Please my accept my deeply felt condolences in this difficult time. You will be in my thoughts and prayers. During the years we worked together, I had the chance to meet Tim on several occasions. What struck me so much was that he always seemed to be so genuinely interested in me and, I am sure, the many others that he met.
I still remember his generous and kind words to me when my partner became chronically ill. Tim's openness to the fullness of the world was constantly evident. It was evident that he had a big heart. I sure he will be missed by all who encountered him.
Again, please accept my condolences in this difficult time.
Whitney Chadwick
December 12, 2011
Dear Ruth,
Bob and I send condolences, love and sympathy. We enjoyed our brief moments with Tim; a warm, caring, smart man who loved his trips, his family, his wife and who will, we know, be much missed. Thinking of you, Whitney and Bob
Marsha Harris
December 12, 2011
Ruth, you are a very lucky woman to have shared so many fulfilling years with your soul mate.
Julia Lewis
December 12, 2011
Dear Ruth-
All of us in the Psychology department are deeply sorry for your loss. Even though we have known you only a few months it is clear that you and Tim were devoted and had a fun and full life together.
Please accept our sympathy and know that we are thinking of you.
Barbara Foster
December 12, 2011
Remembering Tim's love of history and books that brought the past to the present in full color will always be a warm memory. My sincerest sympathy to you Ruth and all the family.
Miriam Knof
December 12, 2011
I am deeply saddened by your loss Ruth. I have never met Tim in person but I appreciate that I could read wonderful things about him. Please know that you are not alone. If you need anything, feel free to contact me.
Fran Milligan
December 12, 2011
Dear Ruth: Again my sympathy to you. It was such a pleasure to meet you and Tim while I had taken care of his Mom. The few times that I had seen you and Tim during one of your trips will forever stay with me. As I told you on the phone I could see his love for you on his face. I am happy that you laughed when we spoke that would be the way he would want it. My memory of your loving hubby was when we went out to eat and he offered me some of his wine. I fondly remember him asking the waitress for a wine glass for me. We got to the point where we were both going to drink out of the carafe! He was so funny when he filled his own wine glass up and told me "You're family drink out of my glass with me!" We laughed and then both agreed we should just drink from the carafe and asked for 2 straws, the look we got was priceless! Love the photo it is so Tim...I can only imagine the reunion he must be having with his parents. My love and prayers are with you.
Love, Fran
Scott Phelps
December 12, 2011
I had the great pleasure of being a "college buddy" of Tim Shea.Although the members of our "Peoples Army" only spent a few years together, all of us are left with great memories of Tim. He was a very special person who was filled with spirit and life. From the parties at Schoolhouse Lane in Willimantic to winter camping on Cape Cod, Tim was the leader of the the P.A.C.He will be remembered fondly by many here in CT. Daria and I send our deepest sympathy to Ruth who he loved so much.
December 12, 2011
I never met Tim, but having worked with Ruth for these 3+ years I know he must have been a very individual and wonderful person. I know Ruth will miss him terribly.
Ruth, my thoughts are with you.
Arlene Essex, Half Moon Bay, CA
Vickie Rance
December 12, 2011
Although I've never met Tim, I'm certain he was a great person. It seems he has left his footprint on Earth and in the hearts of many. Blessings
Bodil Fox
December 12, 2011
I have fond memories of Tim. Wonderful dinners at their home, thought provoking conversations and good deep laughs. I am truly thankful for Tim's creative abilities when he photographed my wedding 12 years ago. He had a great eye for the beauty of the moment. Tim's photographs from their travels throughout the world were always stunning. He will be missed by all of us.
Glenn Burlton
December 12, 2011
I met Ruth and Tim about 15 years ago in Grand River. I will never forget the night we turned the kitchen into a disco. I have been to Grand River a few times since but missed you. Ruth my thoughts are with you. You and Tim really have had an impact on me and I will never forget him, such a tremendous cool person he was.
Your Halifax Friend
Glenn
John Flanagan
December 11, 2011
Miss you, Tim. So many good times over the years. love, johnny-boy xo
Lorna Hill
December 11, 2011
Dear Ruth,
Please accept my sincere condolences, may the Love of family and friends carry you through this grief. You have my support, friendship, and love. Always, Lorna
December 11, 2011
Beautifully written, Ruth. You only omitted one fact - how much Tim loved you. You were his world. You both are in my heart and in my prayers. Valerie Nagle (Petaluma, CA)
Robert Darryl Wallace
December 11, 2011
Dear Ruth, you and Tim were clearly two of the classiest, sweetest, and friendliest people (next door neighbors) that I had the pleasure of knowing for those eleven (11) years that I lived on Dolores Street (back in the swinging 80's).
It clearly was a shock when Laurie (Reiner) told me that Tim had suddenly passed away. So, clearly without saying, Tim left you Dear Lady, and all of us way too soon.
My most heartfelt sincere condolences go out to you Ruth, to your family members, and also to those closer friends of his that had the pleasure of knowing both Tim, and you (and for a much longer period of time than I did).
Tim, and the wonderful memories of his friendship (and yours too) will remain with me always.
Wilma & David Ross
December 11, 2011
Tim was a kind and loving soul, taken from this earth far too soon. We will treasure our time spent chatting over meals when you visited us in Nova Scotia. It was a joy to be around such a loving couple and to travel the world vicariously with you through the photos and stories you shared with us. We will remember Tim always.
Ken Cameron
December 11, 2011
Well done Ruth. The village of Grand River holds you in its thoughts. Remember that you are much loved as we loved Tim.
Sheldon Axler
December 11, 2011
I barely knew Tim, but I work with Ruth, and so I know that Tim must have been a very special person. My deep sympathy goes to all of Tim's family and friends.
Laurie Reiner
December 11, 2011
Tim was amazing and one of a kind. He was a dear friend who will always be missed and never forgotten. Tom and I are still in shock that he is suddenly gone from all of us. It was exactly 3 months ago when we saw him in September. We always looked forward to seeing Tim and Ruth on our visits to San Francisco, and especially to hear about their latest travels. Tim always had a great story to tell! San Francisco will not be the same without you. We'll always love you, Tim.
Tom Reiner
December 11, 2011
For many years, I have looked up to Tim to show me books to read and musicians to listen to. He never disappointed. Tim, Ruth, Laurie and I would sometimes revel to four AM when we visited San Fran and had the pleasure of learning about their latest travels and adventures. I have known that red haired guy since 1975 and we have mostly been, "Out of control," since. What a wonderful life that has now been brought shut way too soon. I will miss you but now you are on the strange new road, perhaps with Eddie, the fictional hitchhiker that Tim picked up one cross country adventure.
Goodbye buddy.
At my house
William Eichinger
December 11, 2011
I'll always have fond memories of our times together, cooking and eating wonderful dinners at your place, listening to good music and enjoying a few beers, having a great many laughs. You were an inspirational couple, and always will be in my heart.
`Chili Bill
Patricia Keeney
December 11, 2011
Tim left me with many good memories as part of his extended Family at 400 Dolores Street. Always a twinkle in his eyes, A smile of generosity and kindness. Tim cared about people from all walks of life. Tim never failed to embrace Life to the Fullest. His greatest accomplishment in Life, was the Love he exhibited towards his loving Wife Ruth.
Bob Evans
December 11, 2011
Tim entertained us with one of his generous and delicious crab and lobster feasts in Nova Scotia not long ago. He certainly loved life, living it to the fullest; enjoying his many friends and new adventures. It is so tragic that Tim died so suddenly. We send our sympathy and love to Ruth knowing how much she and Tim enjoyed their life together.
Jessie Gmeiner
December 11, 2011
Tim was a wonderful person, who enjoyed life and travel so much. We so enjoyed seeing Tim and Ruth every summer during their visits to Nova Scotia. We shall miss him so much. We grieve for dear cousin Ruth, and extend our deepest sympathy. Jessie & Bob Palmer
amalia tweedie
December 11, 2011
Truly a moving obituary and an excellent portrait of Tim. I will cherish him in memory as an intensely caring soul with a sparkling sense of humour and a knack for giving heartfelt advice. It was an honour to know him and an inspiration to see him and Ruth together. The love that they shared was almost palpable at times.
Karen Nordeen
December 11, 2011
Tim had a dynamic, engaging personality, a sharp wit, and was not afraid to explore controversial issues. I so enjoyed this part of him, and knew that I could approach him with any subject and we would play together with it. He loved to learn and investigate things, and had a great passion for travel. Together on their travels, he and Ruth would capture significant places and experiences with photographs, and share the ways they were changed together by them. Tim was not afraid to express his love and care for anything or anyone, and I especially admired him for that. He truly loved and praised his wife, Ruth, and it was a joy to witness their appreciation for each other. My sense of Tim now is that he is putting the full force of his energy into where he is, and he is golden. So, I will remember Tim, light a candle, and enjoy a lively, bright, hue.
Roberta York
December 10, 2011
Tim was one of a kind and occasionally with his outgoing and sometimes outrageous personality, two of a kind. He was a great friend to me and I still can't believe he is gone. Robbi
Kelly Marquis
December 10, 2011
What a beautifully written obit. It captures Tim so perfectly. I love the photo. I can just see the mischievous sparkle and awe in his eyes, and his joy at sharing that moment with Ruth and his furry little friend. Tim was uniquely wonderful in so many ways. I can't believe he's not with us anymore, but have no doubt he's stirring up a healthy political discussion in the great beyond. Or maybe he's talking Giants with the angels. Or most likely he's talking about his beautiful Ruthie. I don't think I can remember a single conversation with Tim that didn't come back around to how much he loved and admired his wife and best friend. He was like a brother and a dear friend to me. I loved his stories ... even the ones that went on and on : ) , and the stories that Cole would come home and tell me about his days on the job with Tim. He had the biggest heart and he and Ruth have a permanent very special place in mine. Rest in peace Tim.
Ruth MacKay-Shea
December 10, 2011
Dearest Tim,
You were the light of my life, my best friend and partner. I love you always,
Ruth
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