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Captain Eric Allan Tinkham

Eric Tinkham Obituary

Tinkham, Captain Eric Allan
of the Queen Creek Fire Department passed away on Saturday, August 1, 2009 while on duty. He is survived by his wife, Judy, children Taleah, Breahna and Shania; step-children Chasidy, Dennis Jr., Lacy and Jessica, parents, Larry and Janice; sister Lynn and brother Thad, along with nephew Jeremy, niece Kendra, and eight grandchildren. Captain Tinkham's Memorial Service with full Fire Service honors will be this Friday, August 7, 2009, 10 a.m. in Love of Christ Lutheran Church's Center of Compassion, 1525 N. Power Road, Mesa, Arizona. The viewing will be held Thursday evening, August 6 from 6-8 p.m. in Love of Christ's Sanctuary. Eric's family has asked for donations to be made to the 100 Club of Arizona, a service organization that gives financial assistance to families of fallen law enforcement officers and firefighters at 5033 N. 19th Ave., #123, Phoenix, AZ 85015 in lieu of flowers.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Arizona Republic on Aug. 6, 2009.

Memories and Condolences
for Eric Tinkham

81 Entries

Judy

September 13, 2022

It´s been 13 years now sense you left us but I´m ready to tell my story...
One month before my Eric passed away I had a vision.. I was standing there looking up in the south/western sky and saw the most beautiful thunder clouds I´ve ever seen then suddenly I see a young man angel coming out of the clouds, he came down wearing a long white robe with a rope around his waste and blond hair, I never saw wing on him.
There was what looked like a stone pillar that looked like it was a crept sitting by itself and he hovered on his left side over the top of it but never touched it.
I was so in aw over what I was seeing! Then he pointed into the sky at a bright star..I was taking it to be the bright morning star... I asked God what does this mean?
Then the again the angel pointed to the star and the cross Eric got me one year for Christmas that I always had warn was in front of the star.. then the angel went back into the clouds and I feel asleep.
I´ve always been a seer but never really understood any of the visions God showed me but this one became very clear on Aug. 1, 2009.
I got woken up that morning by something.. maybe the TV and if so I must have turned it off, so I went out back and sat down and saw the morning star about 5:30 a.m. and it was like God was telling me to take off my cross and line it up with the morning star.. so I did but was very frightened to do it and felt the worst fear of my life knowing something was gonna happen but didn´t know what!! But I did it hesitating!! It scared me so much and I ran back into the house, jumped into bed and covered my head up with my blanket!! I fell back to sleep only to wake up to chiefs truck outside my home that morning to tell me my beloved beautiful husband was gone... my heart sank, I sank, my world was over and has been ever sense!! I loved that man with my whole being!! I miss him every day!! But that vision has kept me going!
I had told Eric about that vision before he passed away but he just pretty much just said hmmm because he didn´t understand it either. I know one day I´ll see him again and be with him and I know he will be with the lord because he was saved in the blood of Christ and accepted him as his lord and savior and was baptized in water Amen

Angry Daughter

March 25, 2013

Its 2013 and it still feels like just yesterday you left. Life sucks without you. Theres so much I wish you could see. Ive messed up so much since you left and I still am... Its hard... I can't stand seeing mom this way.. She really needs you right now and so do I... I thought everything would get better with time but it hasn't. I feel like im punishing myself for you going away... Im used to pain now even though I shouldnt be... I miss you so much daddy. This life just isn't fair...

tillya

February 9, 2011

hi papa,
hi papa its your grandaughter tillya i just want to say i miss u soooo much and i love u sooo much i just had a baby boy and i wish u were here to see him his name is kameron i know he would of looked up to you papa,i love u and miss u the family just isent the same without you your in my heart papa love you

August 27, 2010

Dear Eric
This is your stepson D.J. I just wanted to tell you that
I love you always and forever, Not a day goes by that you don't come into to my mind. You came into my life when I was just 12 years old,.you showed me love and guidance. I Will never forget your love and compassion I always loved how you were a kid at heart and were so full of life hope to be reunited soon
Your son. D.J.

August 27, 2010

Dear Eric
This is your stepson D.J. I just wanted to tell you that
I love you always and forever, Not a day goes by that you don't come into, to my mind. You came into my life when I was just 12 years old,.you showed me love and guidance. I Will never forget your love and

July 29, 2010

Eric, it is nearly a year since you left us. But, you didn't really. Your spirit and your influence are part of us, and we are grateful for your innumerable gifts to community, to associates, to friends, and to family. I am going to keep a copy of your memory book so that I can continue to be inspired by the notes from those your life touched -- and continues to touch.

May you somehow know that your life was incredibly valuable and how precisely this well-known statement applies to you: "Well done, good and faithful servant."

Special wishes go with this to your family, your friends, and your fellow first-responders.

Jessica Perkins/Tinkham

February 8, 2010

Hey daddy, Just wanted to let you know I miss you and love you. I still remember your prickley kiss when droping me off at school I remember those hugs you would give me when I came to the house I'm trying not to cry daddy but I miss you alot its really hard to talk, type or think about you without crying I cant even watch one of my favorit movies (Chuck and Larry)anymore becuase instead of laughing I start crying. I'm trying to stay strong though and I'm doing my best to keep you proud of me. It's really hard but I'm trying. I'm at work writing this and its really really hard to keep myself from crying in front of everyone. But I have to go now please watch over me and your family and friends keep us safe and guide us. You havent left anyones hearts and minds. I have to go now I love you daddy and ps I know I should be smileing when walking down the isle but I think I'll be crying its going to be the sadest day of my life becuase you wont be there. I love you Daddy I cant wait to hug you again.

Spooky

January 10, 2010

As this day draws to a close, I look at the clock; I start this message at 11:58 p.m. on 1/9/2010. I know whom I would like to be facing and addressing; however, he is no longer here.

"No longer here," you say? Yes, he is; he is beside you. He will be, as he always has been.

Though I know this, it is not the same. I strain to see his image — the one that could almost always" heal all" is now far off in the distance, farther than I can see. I hope one day to get close enough again, not only to see my friend's face, but maybe even to reach his hand again, to hear his voice again, even if over the radio of E59 or E412, or perhaps muffled through an SCBA, somewhere off in the distance.

As if in a dream, I enter the structure fire, and I start my search and rescue. There are flames raging all around me. Where is my friend? I start to get anxious now; I strain, and listen for a PASS alarm to go off — nothing. Again, I strain, through the thick, heavy, black smoke to see some sort of sign of my friend, off in the distance. Still nothing. My body reaches the "fight or flight" syndrome. I'm worried now; I know something is wrong.

I call for Captain #412 on my radio frantically, hoping someone will acknowledge the #999 code. Still nothing. It is not like Captain Tinkham not to acknowledge. Sadly, I realize he can no longer respond.

Eric, or "Tink" as most knew him, was a dear friend of mine for 23 years. We were firefighting partners together at RMFD, we worked in the alarm room together, and we hung out a lot over the years.

Today would have been Tink's 45th birthday. We were the same age. The above narrative is just something I felt like sharing as I try to find some comfort in my memories of him.

I know that "Tink" was received with open arms when he went up the "Stairway to Heaven." He was a wonderful person who touched so many hearts. Bless you, Tink, your family, and the brotherhood that keeps us all so strong!

"Spooky"

spooky

January 9, 2010

Today is one of my best friends, and fire partners birthdays. Tink would have been 45 today. He always used tease me, that I was "older" than he was, (I was 45 on Halloween). I think of you daily Tink, and still cannot believe you are gone. I stopped by #412 on Christmas Eve, it was great to see everyone, but sure different without you there. Your spirit was there though! My family and I send out our wishes and thoughts to you and your family today! Happy Birthday Old Friend!

Spooky

January 9, 2010

Today, January 9, 2010, would have been Eric's 45th birthday.

It is a poigant reminder of the too-short, but full and meaningful, life of Capt. Tinkham.

We remember and honor Eric now and always and again send our thoughts and prayers to his parents, brother and sister, other family members, friends, and fellow first responders.

Tink, as the years go by, you will not be forgotten. You are always with us.

December 16, 2009

This beautiful holiday season will be poigant for many family and friends who loved and admired Eric.

May the wonderful memories of him and his life work ease the sense of loss at this special time of year.

November 2, 2009

Eric,

Some old friends of yours drove by Queen Creek Fire Station #412 yesterday, remembering that you left us three months ago. We saw there a small candle near a tree by the window of your quarters and were reminded once again of the value of your life and the esteem in which you were and are held by so many -- then, now, and always.

We are moving on with our lives, but we miss you still,Tink.

me[Breahna] and my daddy when i was like 2 =[

October 15, 2009

Daddy,
You have no idea how hard its been around here without you. It's like you made everything in our lives good when you were here and now all of a sudden your just gone? It's been two months since you past and it still seems unreal. I miss you more than anyone can imagine, but i know you would want us all to go on and live our lives like nothingg happend. You were one of the greatest people i have ever known and i want to be just like you. you always put a smile on everyones face and you always knew how to make people laugh... I just wish i couldve hugged you more and been around you more and never missed a moment with you. I miss you so much daddy... i love you.

carla jarrett

October 5, 2009

E.T.

It's so hard to say to "Goodbye" to the ones we have grown to love in our own special ways. You were a true hero to so many. I/we will never forget the memories that we were able to share with you.

My son Alex would always express the good times he shared with you and your family and if we would have let him, he would probably move in. Oh wait he did!

Rest in peace my friend

Prayers go out to the Tinkham Family

September 30, 2009

Eric, you have been gone two months as of tomorrow, and we miss you as much as ever.

As we move through the significant holidays and special dates during the year, we shall think of you and feel your presence. You will never be forgotten.

Be with your family, your friends, and your fellow first responders in spirit and know how grateful we are for your life, a well-lived example for us all.

September 1, 2009

Although it has been a month now since Eric left us, our thoughts and prayers continue for his family, friends, and fellow firefighters.

Although time may eventually bring some healing for the pain of this loss, it will never erase our memories of and the gratitude for Eric's life.

Judy Tinkham

August 24, 2009

My Husband, I want to thank you my love, for all you have given to me. You gave me more love, than anyone ever could. You gave me laughter, and strength, you gave me three beautiful daughters to carry on your legacy. When i look at them I see so much of you. I was never afraid of anything when I was wrapped in your arms. I miss you more than i thought I could ever miss anyone, and i would give anything to here your sweet voice again and just to hold you one more time, to at least to tell you I love you, and there are no words to explain the hurt, and pain I feel knowing your not coming home. My heart breaks, so I can only hold on to when the day comes when ill see you again. For you it will only be a day, but it will seem like forever to me but until that day, my love, I will always keep you in my heart forever and for eternity I love you and I always will, but until we are together again, rest in peace my love, ill see you soon. I LOVE YOU....

haha

August 18, 2009

Jim Hartsfield

August 14, 2009

To: Judy and Girls, Tink was my driver/engineer in Fountain Hills, engine 822&823. He gave me laughter, strength, courage, pride, and more laughter. He was competent, as a medic and firefighter. I never worried when he was with me because I knew we would meet whatever challenge that presented itself and we would be safe!! The picture of he and I with Senator John McCain has been hanging on my den wall ever since I retired and it will remain there. Judy I am so glad you read the letter at the service, because after hearing of his untimely death one of the things that kept entering my mind was, I spent all that time with him and I never ask him if he knew the Lord. Now I know I will see him again in heaven!! My thoughts and prayers are with you and the girls. He loved you and those girls!!
My condolences to Tinks entire family!!

Retired Cpt. Jim Hartsfield & Suzi

Chief Jeremy Goble

August 13, 2009

It was an honor to have known you if only for 24 hours. It was a priveledge to have rode with you and Engine Company 412. May future firefighters strive to have the skills, knowledge, and leadership you showed me. Thanks for the memories.

August 12, 2009

"We'll take it from here" keeps growing, Eric. One more of your friends is resuming a place in a fire department as part of a critical-debriefing team.

Thanks, Tink; you're keeping us busy as we remember and honor you.

August 11, 2009

In Art Carillo's words in this book of memories, "Watch over us brother; we'll take it from here." (August 10 entry)

Eric, your service has inspired one more person to begin EMT training; please watch over her.

Chelle Brookes

August 10, 2009

To the Tinkham's:

Thank you for raising such a wonderful man who touched more lives than can ever be counted. He was certainly unique and will be missed by all who knew him and the communities he served.

Ken

August 10, 2009

Thank you for the time we had and the example you set. Thank you for all of the lives you touched. Looking forward to seeing you again someday.

Ken

Art Carrillo

August 10, 2009

Tink, I look at your picture and still have such a hard time believing you are gone. I remember all the practical jokes and trash talking we did when I was a patrol Deputy in the Johnson Ranch area and you worked for Rural Metro. You have left a huge void in the community, Fire dept., and in our hearts. Thanks for all the great memories and good times. Watch over us brother, we'll take it from here.

Shane Wyman

August 9, 2009

What a guy Tink or as some of us called him "One Lung" was. I was so relieved when I heard he made it on at Queen Creek. What a blessing. He was one of my mentors. He introduced me to the Trail. Move ups to the "TRI". One man pack attacks. Rescue 57. Front mount pumps. Forty Five + min. responses to one of the lakes. How many times did we move station 59 because the lease was up? Meeting halfway on the trail to hang out with DPS,SO, and AMT units on a Sat. night knowing we were all going to get dispatched all together at any moment. Herb Hoadley would always give us a chuckle on Utility 59. We had some great times. He was never in a bad mood. Tink called me, out of the blue, after my cancer a few months ago. He wanted to welcome me back when he saw my name on the scedule next to Ladder 253. That was the kind of guy he was. I won't foreget that. Recently, we hugged at a CE. We said we would hook up, get a drink and do some catching up. We didn't get the chance here, but we will my brother. Rest in peace, job well done.

Carol Allen

August 8, 2009

To Eric's extended family, all the firefighters and paramedics, we say thank you for arranging a truly beautiful service Friday. The tributes, in music, in flowers, and in words were magnificent.

The procession too was very moving, with people (and those beautiful school children) along the way -- waving and holding up flags as we passed. What a tribute from the community, not only to Eric but also to all of you we call "first responders." Our gratitude is immense to Eric, for his service, and to all of you.

You know, we came to show support and give comfort to Eric's family, but they, in many ways, gave more to us. The whole family, of course, but especially his mother and father and his sister and brother gave back our hugs and so graciously accepted our condolences, our tears, and our own memories. No wonder Eric was the loving man he was.

So, we go on now with our own lives and begin to heal our heavy hearts. Eric, as you said, would want us to smile again and "get back to work."

Thank you all, and to Eric, you are with us always as an inspiration to do our best as we live each day and, above all, to care deeply about others.

You have climbed the "stairway to heaven," and we know you will now live there in beauty and love and peace.

Lisa (Sprandel) Fitzpatrick

August 8, 2009

Uncle Larry, Aunt Jan, Lynn and Thad, we are heartbroken at your unimaginable loss. While I haven't kept in touch with my cousins through our adult years, nothing will replace the hilarious memories from the "kid's table" during holidays with Grandpa and Grandma Tinkham. You are with us in our thoughts--we love you all!

rob byrnes

August 8, 2009

Eric,

Though i have only known you a short time,I had fun in your presence-especially the concert at the Dodge with our ladies. I promise to take good care of your sister as she is another Tinkham who won my heart over.
Rob Byrnes-Queen Creek

August 7, 2009

To my nephew, Eric. I will miss you deeply. You are someone to really be proud of. I know you and grandpa are fishing together. Tell dad hi for me. I wish I could have been there with the family but to many miles seperated us. I will love and remember you always.
Aunt Leslie Tinkham (Farrell)

Jim Trapp

August 7, 2009

I was very sad to hear this news. I worked with Eric many years ago on the trail and in Gilbert. He was a dedicated brother and friend. Thoughts and prayers to his family and all his brothers and sisters on the job. He will be missed!

Christina Wach

August 7, 2009

Our deepest sympathy goes out to Eric's family. Sorry we couldn't be there to support you through this difficult time. You are in our thoughts and prayers back here in Minnesota. God bless all of you.

With all our Love,
Chrissy(Wicks)Wach & family

Dennis Sefton

August 7, 2009

Eric's family is in our family's prayers. Eric was a devoted Firefighter and family man. I will always remember our days on the trail and our brush fires.

Dave Martin

August 7, 2009

Tink,
Remember the days?
We worked 14 days a month, our world was 3 miles wide, 10 miles long and we called it "The Trail".
We rode tailboard, wore long coats, hip boots and steel bottles.
On a slow day we could danced with the devil, rescue a man from a cactus and delivered a baby, all before lunch.
We went to places with names like Oasis, Liesure and Dreamland... How ironic was that? And don't forget the Maverick and the feed store.
Hanging out with Medic units, MCSO and DPS during endless nights on move up. Did Engine 20 forget us again?!
Then there were the endless practical jokes no one was safe and nothing was sacred.
Thanks for the memories Brother. Gods Speed.

To the Tinkham family,
Thank you for sharing Eric with us over these years. Our time with him truly enriched all our lives. He will always be remembered.

You are in our thoughts and prayers during this sad and difficult time

Ken Diamond

August 6, 2009

There are no words to express. Eric you will be missed, you made a hugh impact on me. To his family, you are always in our thoughts and prayers.

Robyn (Kirkendall) Turney

August 6, 2009

I also worked with Tink on the Trail so many years ago. You could always rely on him regardless of the request.
I pray for peace for his family. Good memories for the rest of us.

Robyn (Kirkendall) Turney-Rohla

August 6, 2009

I too worked with Tink on the trail so many years ago. Eric knew what he was doing and you could always count on him, regardless of the request asked.
I pray for peace for his family, and will remember all the good times we had, even at 3am..

Carmen Caza

August 6, 2009

It was a pleasure to have known Eric while working with him in Dispatch. I thank his family for sharing him with all of us at Rural Metro, allowing us to get to know such a sweet spirit. You will be in my prayers. Carmen

August 6, 2009

Lynn, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort. TL

Russ Street

August 6, 2009

I remember Eric as a new Reserve Firefighter in Batt.2. He was an eager student, a fine young man, and turned out to be a good firefighter. Always a lot of fun to be around.

May God grant him eternal rest, and hold his family in His loving hands.

casey yarbrough

August 6, 2009

I would like to extend my apologies to Captain Tinkhams families of both his wife and children, also the men and women he served with on the Fire Department. My prayers and thoughts go out to you all.

James Wallin

August 6, 2009

I am so sadden from Eric's passing as for he was so young. I remember the first day he came to the fire service with RMFD when we were knocking down a small brush fire and seemed got nick named Zero from whom I don,t know but we were friends from that day on. He was also a great assistant coach for our baseball team for all players thought very much of him. He will be missed for his leadership and his ability to get along with people. May God and the Lord Jesus guide him and the family that he left behind and the friends that loved him so well. James Wallin ( Snowflake, AZ)

David Knaust and family

August 6, 2009

Eric and I worked together in Rural Metro in the ‘80s and we had some real good times together. Those memories mean more to me than words can ever express. My heart and prayers go out to his family and all those that have been touched by Tink.

To Eric’s wife and kids: Know that because of your husband/father our world is a better place. He is a true hero. God bless you!!!

V M

August 6, 2009

I didn't know Eric but I can't stop thinking about this sad time for the family, freinds, co-workers. My prayers and thoughts go out to Eric and his lovely family. Thank you for being such a caring man and helping your community out, you will never be forgotten! May peace be with you!

Tena Dugan

August 6, 2009

To Eric's family,

I worked with Eric when he was with Rural Metro. I was a young deputy, and always enjoyed his positive attitude. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time, yet I know a special angel watches over us all.

Doreen Petrillo

August 5, 2009

My deepest condolences to the whole Tinkham family and Firefighter family. My brother is a Gilbert Firefighter, I can't express how sadden we are over his sudden passing.

August 5, 2009

We mourn the loss of a mentor , a friend , a coworker, Whose smile and big heart can never be replaced. He has touched so many in the short time he was with us and leaves many fond memories. You will be missed by all. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family

Captain Roger Lewison & Linda Lewison

Larry and Janice Tinkham

August 5, 2009

From Eric Tinkham to those who loved me and who I loved.

When I am gone, release me, let me go, I have so many things to see and do.
You mustn't tie yourself to me with tears, be happy that we had so many years. I gave you my love,you can only guess, how much you gave me in happiness. I thank you for the love you each have shown, but now it's time I traveled on alone. So grieve awhile for me, if grieve you must, then let your grief be conforted by trust.It's only for awhile that we must part, so bless the memories within your heart. I won't be far away, for life goes on. So if you need me, call and I will come. Though you can't see or touch me, I'll be near. If you listen with your heart, you'll hear, all of my love around you, soft and clear. Then, when you must come this way alone, I'll greet you with a smile and welcome home.--unknown author

My niece sent this to us for comfort and we are sure it would have been Eric's thoughts to all of us.

John Shedler

August 5, 2009

I worked with Eric back inthe early 90s in Mesa and A J we were reserves together, I am sorry to hear of his passing and my prayers go out to him, his family and his fire family. John Shedler

Bob Parrish

August 5, 2009

To Eric's family, I am truly saddened about the news of Eric's death. Our prayers go out to you all. Eric will be missed greatly by all. Eric touched many of our lives both proffesionally and personally. I will always remember his sense of humor and his good nature in general. Eric was a good friend to the community and me personally. We have lost a good man....I am saddened.

JON SIDES AT QCHS

August 5, 2009

In My Pocket

I have memories in my pocket.
They rattle among the change.

My memories of you are treasures I carry wherever I go.

They are stored in bits and pieces, parts of a beautiful whole
They give me comfort when I think I am alone.

Yes, I have memories in my pocket, like so much other stuff I keep there.

But of all the treasures I have, it’s the memories of you that are the most precious.

Tim Cook

August 5, 2009

My Thoughts, Prayers, and condolences are with the family of Tink. Tink was an awesome paramedic and fire captain. You will be missed by everyone in the public safety system.

As a former Southwest Ambulance employee, I had the chance to run a few calls with him when he was at Rural Metro Fire. He would always have a great sense of humor with a smile to back it. I could tell any crew that worked with him loved working with him. He was a top notch paramedic and excellent leader.

Kerry Kenney

August 5, 2009

Our thoughts and prayers are with the Tinkham family as they navigate this very difficult time. We thank Eric for his service to the community and are so sorry for his loss.

August 5, 2009

I knew "Tink" when I was a Rookie Deputy in the Queen Creek area of Pinal County. He was always a great person to network with and swap stories. I am saddened to hear of his passing and send out my thoughts and prayers to his family and friends. I look forwarded to seeing him in Heaven some day.

Corporal Curt Holloway #1223
Pinal County Sheriff's Office

Amanda

August 5, 2009

My heart is with the Tinkham family and his brothers and sisters in the fire service. I am thankful that I knew Tink and grateful for how good he was to me when I was going through a rough time. Mostly, I am forever grateful that whenever my husband worked with him, he came home safe and sound. He'll be missed...

August 5, 2009

My thoughts and prayers are with the entire Tinkham Family,and with the Queen Creek Fire Department Family. Words cannot express the sorrow that I know many of those who knew Eric must feel.
I knew Eric at Rural/Metro when we both worked there, and more recently when he would arrive at Gilbert Hospital with a patient. As a Firefighter and a Paramedic he was the best and we will miss him. Thank you Eric for all you have done over the years. God Bless you and your family and keep them close.
Sandy Nygaard, Gilbert Hospital

Tony and Seandee Ambrosia

August 5, 2009

There are no words to say how sorry we are for the loss of Eric. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Bryan Smith

August 5, 2009

Eric,

For everything you've accomplished over the years, and for all the people you've helped; THANK YOU. For all the sleepless nights on shift while citizens slept soundly; THANK YOU. For being a father and a role model to your children and to new Firefighters; THANK YOU. For the privelege of having known and worked with you; THANK YOU. Go easy my brother and THANK YOU for always fighting the good fight.

D. B.

August 5, 2009

My thoughts and prayers are with the Tinkman family during this sad time.

Kim (Briske) Carlson

August 5, 2009

Eric ~
I haven’t seen you in years but it feels like just yesterday when I saw you last. I’ll always hold close in my heart the memories we shared when we were younger at Grandma and Grandpa’s. My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family. You’ll be missed!!! Across the heavens you will light the world.

DOUG ASHMAN

August 4, 2009

GOD REST YOUR SOUL.YOU HAVE BEEN CALLED HOME TO THE BE WITH ALL YOUR FELLOW FIREFIGHTERS WHO ARE ALL HEROS!!!!

August 4, 2009

God Speed Brother... Rest In Peace

August 4, 2009

You will be missed Tink, thanks for all your hard work.

J S

August 4, 2009

I worked with Tink long ago back in the Rural Metro days. You will be remembered and missed. Bless your family and loved ones.

Richard and Lisa Gallegos

August 4, 2009

To The Tinkman Family and Brothers and Sisters of the Arizona Fire Departments that have been touched by Eric Tinkman:

May the stars carry your sadness away, May the flowers fill your heart with beauty, May hope forever wipe away your tears. And, above all, may silence make you strong.

You are all in our thoughts and prayers.

August 4, 2009

What a loss his death is. He was always so cheerful and willing to help others. He will be so missed. Mary and John Carroll

Carol Allen

August 4, 2009

REMEMBERING CAPT. ERIC TINKHAM — To his parents, his daughters, his brother and sister, his wife and other family members, his fellow firefighters, and his many friends, Arizona Boating & Watersports sends its deepest sympathy at the passing of Capt. Eric Tinkham, 44, of the Queen Creek Fire Department. Capt. Tinkham began his firefighting career at the age of 17, serving with Rural Metro until December 2007 when he and 16 other firefighters were sworn in by Judge David Phares from the Town of Gilbert at the inception of Queen Creek's first fire department. Capt. Tinkham was a well-respected firefighter/paramedic who saved countless lives (and delivered many new ones) during his 27 years of service.

We have fond personal memories of Capt. Tinkham as our daughter Lisa Brookes Haws worked with him for several years, also as a firefighter/EMT, and had the honor of training him in dispatch for Rural Metro. In his short life, this valuable young man accomplished so much for so many. We are grateful, Capt. Tinkham, and we celebrate your life.

Be at peace, Eric; you have served well.

Carol Allen and the Haws and Brookes families

Note: There is a memorial to Eric on the first page of our August issue;you may view it at www.azbw.com

QC Councilmember Jeff Brown and wife Melanie

August 4, 2009

To the family of Eric Tinkham we extend our greatest sympathies and condolences on your loss. Eric was well respected and had our greatest admiration for his service to the Town of Queen Creek.

Matt Greenwell

August 4, 2009

I too met Tink way back on the Trail. The many times our paths would cross over the years, it was always grins and laughs. We're gonna miss you man!

My thoughts and prayers are with all of his family and friends...

Alan Stemme

August 4, 2009

I worked with Eric on the Trail back in the day. He always had a great attitude and did what ever he could to help. He will be missed

August 4, 2009

To the Tinkham family and brothers and sisters of Queen Creek FD.

Our hearts and prayers are with you always. We are sad to hear of the loss. I will always remember Eric's smile and good nature.

To my fallen brother Eric, thank you for your dedication to the fire service and thanks for all of the lives you impacted in such a positive way. Rest well my brother, we'll miss you!

With deepest condolences,

Ward Fleger
Mesa Fire BC202 retired

Roger & Laura Richards

August 4, 2009

Eric will be missed by all. He was a true friend and a deicated Firefighter. We watched Eric grow up over the years in east county. Eric was a true brother Firefighter. He would do anything to help someone and didn't ask anything in return. Eric touched so many lives and he will missed. Gone to soon but NEVER forgotten. Are thoughts and prayers are with you all.

PMT Crew Members

August 4, 2009

I first met Eric on a call in Tempe when E412 was moved up to Mesa Fire Station 203, i thought they were lost being so far away from Queen Creek. I work for PMT Ambulance and Eric had his interview with PMT that next morning, we talked for a bit about PMT and he was excited to come work for us. Eric was a great Paramedic, and was well liked at PMT. PMT, Queen Creek Fire, and all of his family and friends were lucky to know/have a guy like Eric around them. Eric you will be missed and our hearts and prayers go out to your family.

August 4, 2009

Our thoughts and prayers are with the Tinkham family. Eric will be missed. He was an asset to our fire department.

Councilman Gail Barney and wife Pamela

Buddy Johnson, Pinal County S\O

August 4, 2009

Tink we had alot of fun in Johnson Ranch\Queen Creek. I was just thinking when I brought a stray dog to the sub-station in Johnson Ranch and you couldn't stand the thought of it going to the dog catcher. So your wife and girls came down and took the dog home.

My thoughts and prayer go out to your family and crew. You will be deeply missed.

August 4, 2009

Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Eric Tinkham and the Queen Creek Fire Department in the passing of a brother.

Members of the Globe Fire Department
Local 2273

Brad Mooney

August 4, 2009

It's been over 25 years since I fought fire with Eric at Rural Metro in East Mesa. I'm deeply saddened to hear of his sudden passing. My thoughts and prayers go out to all family members. God Bless Eric.

An old friend

Richard Mason

August 4, 2009

Our family is keeping his family in our thoughts and prayers. He will be missed by many. He was truly a dedicated firefighter and I will always remember the days on the trail.

August 4, 2009

Eric:
Thank you for showing my son how to be the great man that he is. You two shared a lot of good times, you guided him and showed him by example. You were a role model for more than just Kris and we all thank you for being the outstanding leader in his, and all of our lives.

Kris' Mom
Toni

Mary Garcia

August 4, 2009

My prayers are with his family! Be strong and have a lot of faith.

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