Timothy W. Trotter

Timothy W. Trotter, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend to so many, passed away unexpectedly at his residence in Goshen, Indiana. He was 77.

Born on July 26, 1947, in Elkhart, Indiana, Tim lived a life full of love, laughter and dedication to his family and country.

Growing up in Elkhart, and attending Elkhart High School, he developed an affable personality that made him a joy to be around. His natural charm and love for learning led him to start conversations and form friendships wherever he went.

Tim married the love of his life, Carol (Cook) on Nov. 25, 1967, in Goshen. Their union was a testament to enduring love and partnership, together weathering life's lows and celebrating its many joys. Tim's devotion to his family was evident in every aspect of his life, especially in how he doted on his children and later in life his grandchildren. He never missed an opportunity to support them at their various sporting and band events.

After graduating high school, Tim briefly attended Goshen College. His commitment to his country was strong, as he served with honor in Vietnam. In June of 1968 he left for Vietnam and returned in July of 1969. After returning from Vietnam, Tim attended the Spartan School of Aeronautics in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Shortly thereafter he began working in Elkhart in various positions for 30 years at Firestone Foam Products, later known as Foamex. Tim's love of trains led him to spend three years in the 1980s working for a short line railroad, Indiana Hi-Rail, before returning to Firestone.

Tim is preceded in death by a daughter Adrienne (1976), sister Rosemary and his parents Francis and Ruth.

He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Carol, sons Giffen (Shannon) and Garrick (Tara), daughter Geniese (Chuck) Brown, and grandchildren Esme, Gavin, Chloe, Jacob, Aubryn, Adrianna and Annika. Tim is also survived by his brothers Jim (Linda), Mark (Karen) and Scott (Pat).

The legacy he leaves behind is one of love, laughter and unwavering support for his family and friends. He will be remembered for his ability to fix just about anything, gift of conversation, humor, wit, perpetual status of feeling cold and, as a result, his signature flannel shirts. The warmth Tim exhibited no matter the actual temperature made everywhere he went brighter and more enjoyable. We love you and will miss you forever.

There will be two hours of visitation prior to the noon funeral service on Tuesday, Aug. 27, at Miller-Stewart Funeral Home, 1003 S. Main St., Middlebury. Burial will follow at Grace Lawn cemetery where veterans' honors will be performed by American Legion Post 210. Funeral services will be conducted by Father Robert Van Kempen.

Memorial contributions may be given to VA Northern Indiana Health Care System. Online condolences may be offered at millerstewartfuneralhome.com.