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Robert Vandevort Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for Robert Vandevort
Amie Phillips
April 30, 2009
Proverbs 16:31 reads Gray hair is like a crown of honor. It is earned by living a good life.
I think this is a good verse that made me think of Tim when I heard it. We all know how gray he was and just to let everyone know I being his hairdresser never gave him any chrome highlights.:) I think Tim did live a good life. He accomplished a lot in the 48 years he was here with us. We just think it was cut to short, but we are a little selfish too. We will always remember him and he will live forever in our hearts. It was such a wonderful thing to see how he touched so many lives that us being his family never knew until he was gone. What an honor to be able to call him a Son, Brother, Father, Nephew, Cousin, Uncle, Friend and even a Godparent. He has left us with lots of memories. We love to reminisce about him and all the things he did and said. It makes us sad to think that he is gone, but his memories bring us lots of laughter too. I am so Thankful for all of them.
Now we need to Celebrate his Life!!
Love,
Tim’s Little Scoots
Jackie Cooper
April 27, 2009
Here are 3 funny memories which Tim and I shared:
1. He walked into my house and looked with surprise at a small box I had on my countertop. He asked with a puzzled expression, "What's this?" It was a new box of horse wormer. I just casually asked him as if I was serious, "Are you wormy?" That really caught him off guard. He started laughing and said, "No!" After that, I would randomly out of the blue just ask him, "Are you wormy?" We would always both laugh.
2. Once in a while, I'd tell Tim that I would love to lose some weight. At first he said, "I am going to get some red paint and paint you like a barn!" Evidentially after that, if I ever mentioned weight, he would just laugh and tell me that he was going to "get-out the red paint" That's all he would have to say. We both knew what he meant.
3. There was one week which I had trouble with my cell phone charger. Tim tried to reach me several times but didn't get me. When we did talk again, he said, "I have tried to reach you for several days. What am I "chopped liver?" That became another funny little thing which we shared. He would every once in a while tell me that he was "chopped liver", then he would laugh. I loved his sense of humor.
Love,
Jackie
John Phillips
April 27, 2009
I’ve known Tim for the past 24 years. He was my brother-in-law. We did many things together and we were always there to lend a helping hand to each other in anything that we were doing. I never had to ask him for what I needed when we were working on something he just always knew. He would have a tool or what ever I needed ready for me before I even asked for it. He was a more like a brother to me than a brother-in-law. He was a great man. I used to say he was the only man I knew that could come riding in down here in his truck with his cowboy hat on (looking like a cowboy) and go into the house and come out on his Harley in full Harley gear (looking like a biker). He looked good in either outfit he was in. I had lots of good times with him that made good memories. I really miss him.
Love,
John
Bob Vandevort
April 26, 2009
One time when we went down to the farm. We had taken Tim and Warrens mini bike down. We arrived down there around midnight or so. I let Tim and Warren out at Christy’s house with the mini bike. They rode it down to Aunt Sylvia and Uncle Lloyds house. They rode it around and the house. They just kept riding it until it woke up Aunt Sylvia. She came out of the house and started yelling at them to get out of her yard. Then we drove up and she realized who it was and she just started laughing!!! The kids really enjoyed the mini bike and we had a good time visiting everyone.
Love,
Dad
Drake and Derek Kerr
April 24, 2009
Our Uncle Tim was a neat person. He was so much fun and just full of life. As we got older, we didn’t get spend as much time with him because of working and going to college.
Some of the things we treasured about him, were his honesty, trust and caring about people. He volunteered as a Firefighter, First Responder and EMS. It took a lot of courage to go into burning building to make sure no person was left behind. He went to many scenes or wrecks not knowing what he might see or find and do what he needed to do. He had God in his life and really cared about people. It takes a special person to put in their time after work to do that; you really have to cherish life and care about people.
He had the courage and ability to stand up for what he believed in.
His strength and faith was shown greatly through the way he lived his life. We always admired that in him. He lived life from his the heart. If He was here, he’d tell you he would want his family and friends to live that way too.
We know he is in Heaven doing wonderful things for the Lord. He was a man of many talents so he is preparing a beautiful place for us. He is up there waiting for us when it’s our time to go home.
We Love and Miss Him!
Drake and Derek ( His Nephews)
Cindy Kohlstaedt
April 23, 2009
More memories of Tim,
*fried bologna sandwiches (he made the best ever!)
*shnoo pillow (his grandma's terminology, if I remember correctly, for the pillow he tucked between his knees when he slept)
*pork steak, cabbage & new potatoes in the crock pot (mmmm...the boys didn't care for it, said it stunk up the house, but Tim & I loved it)
*gathering dinner from Bill Ray's garden (Tim was blessed to have Bill & Anita as landlord & neighbors. They are wonderful people & just adored Tim, the feeling was mutual. They had several vegetable gardens and encourged us to pick whatever we wanted)
*Watching Forrest Gump when there was nothing on TV
*Sunday night concerts at Railroad Park (we even bought a soft side cooler on wheels with a telescoping handle just for the concerts. We love to listen to the music & people watch. There was an adorable elderly lady from the nursing home next to the park. She would get all dressed up & come down to the gazebo with her walker & she would dance all evening. She would two step with her walker, sometimes she'd get a man from the crowd to dance with her. She was in her 90's and said she'd been a dancer when she was young. Tim never danced with her, but oh how he watched for her each week, for 3 summers in a row. He'd say "Oh my my grandma's got her dancin' shoes on tonight. Look out boys, she's a comin' for ya.")
*El Maguey's - chicken chimichanga, no pico, no guac (which worked out well since I loved their pico & guac so they would give me his. Our first date was dinner at El Maguey's.)
*It seems alot of memories have to do with food (as evidenced by my previous entry about bike rides with ice cream destinations). In three years of dating I guess you eat a lot of meals together. Plus he always cooked for the boys. We all spent alot of time in that kitchen. The boys & I would usually hang out in the kitchen while Tim was cooking. Lots of stories, lots of laughs. Then we would eat in the living room, where Bubby would promptly sit & give his best starving dog impression. So I, being a sucker for a sad face, would share my meal. That included sharing my drink, whether I planned to or not. He'd just stick his snout right down in my glass & slurp it all up.)
*When he was having a tough time trying to figure something out, he would take off his hat, rub the top of his head, then settle his hat back on his head. Usually that gesture was enough to help him think. Then he'd say some "Tim-ism" like 'a chicken ain't nuttin but a big bird'. (If you look at pictures of him with a hat on you'll see a greasy thumbprint on the underside of the bill.)
*watching Nance's fireworks displays
*bike ride in the rain on 4th of July (after the family picnic in Blue Springs we rode out to Raintree with Billy & Ruth. It started to rain so we stayed & visited til the rain quit & then headed out. The temp had dropped to 55 or 60. We hadn't gone 2 miles & it started pouring & we still had 35 miles to go.We were both sleeveless & cold. Tim found a t-shirt in the saddlebags for me to wear, but nothing for him. Every vehicle we passed sprayed us with water. We were freezing & soaked by the time we got home, even our socks & underwear were wet. Tim said, 'We're keeping long sleeve shirts in the bags from now on'.
*helping with the race track at Kansas Speedway (that's where we were the first time he told me he loved me, I know, it doesn't sound like a romantic spot, but it was sweet, he was kind of shy, I will never forget it).
*hair cut (I was washing dishes & he was on the front porch smoking, or so I thought. Pretty soon he hollared 'Hey hon come here, I want to show you something. So I open the front door & find Tim, with clippers in hand, bald. I thought he was going to show me some squirrels playing in the trees or something, so I was stunned to see his bald white head. I quickly got over the shock though. He was beautiful bald.)
**I have enjoyed reading all the entries in this legacy book. Tim touched each of our lives in different ways & left his fingerprints. I miss him & nothing can change that. But I am grateful to have been given the privilege of sharing life with him. Even if only for a few years. It was wonderful.
Linda Kirkman
April 21, 2009
It has been a year since Tim’s death and it still seems like yesterday. It has been almost 13 years since my sister, Cathy’s death and it still seems like yesterday also. The hurt, the pain, the untimely death is ever present. We cannot understand why but we have the assurance according to God’s word that we will see them again if we have asked the Lord within our hearts.
They are having the time of their lives renewing old memories, friendships, singing, and praising God. We have the pictures and many, many memories that no one can ever take away.
I can’t tell you that the heartache will ever go away. My heartache of loosing Cathy is ever present. There isn’t a day that goes by, that you won’t think of your loved one. When we have family gatherings, they are not the same. A member of your family is gone. Yes, everyone tries to go on with life but as my friend said, “as a family, the color goes out of your world”. I see my parents grieving because they think that parents should die before their kids. I also heard a minister say, “God doesn’t just need the old people, He needs the young at heart, those willing to work, those with a talent, and those that put a smile on other’s face.” That’s why God took Tim, Cathy, and others like them. He has a purpose and we will understand it someday. Until that day that He calls us home, we have a job to do. Listen to the Holy Spirit and He will tell you what you need to do. We have to continue the long, slow road but we know that God will be there for each of us.
I pray for each member of Tim’s family, that you may have the strength to go on and the peace that you need for each day’s trials. May God put His loving arms around you and give you the comfort that you need.
Love,
Linda Kirkman
Tim’s country cousin
Mary Reed
April 17, 2009
One of my funny memories of Tim was when Brianna and I had taken the kids to Railroad Park to play. There was a whole group of undesirable looking men all dressed in black on one side of the park and then about that time a couple of motorcycles drove in there too. I told Brianna, "Come on lets get the kids and leave." I really felt uncomfortable there. So she took one of the kids and I took the other. She was putting one of the kids in on her side of the van and I was bent over putting one in on my side of the van then about that time someone walked up behind me and said, “HI”.
I kind of glanced down out the corner of my eye and seen some black boots. I thought OH NO! Its one of those undesirable men all dressed in black standing here beside me at my van. I was afraid he was there to mug me or do us harm. He had on his dark sunglasses. I looked up and it took a minute to really focus in on him. Then I recognized him. It was that crazy, “TIM”. I said, “TIM! You scared me to death”
He started that wonderful laugh of his; and he just carried on and on, LAUGHING! I really made his day. He loved scaring me as well as he did everyone he could, when he got the chance too. We all know that part of Tim so well. I will always cherish that day with him. We sat and had a nice visit. I asked, “him what he was doing off in the middle of the week”. He had just bought his new bike and thought he would get some miles on it and enjoy the beautiful day. I will always cherish that day in my heart. I believe God put us both there and gave us that special time with each other. I loved him very much and miss him too. He brought so many special happy times and memories to our families.
Love You,
Aunt Mary
"Sister"
April 17, 2009
Uncle Tim liked to call me "Sister", I am not sure to this day if he really knew my name, I never heard him say it. I didn't mind. Although we were not close, we would see each other at least once a month at Wal-Mart; we would always say “hi” and ask how each other had been. My mom likes to tell the story about how Tim saved my life before I was even born. When my dad, my mom and Tim were driving and about to wreck, Tim laid over her stomach to protect me from impact. I’m not sure if they wrecked or not but it must have worked. There was also a time when my brother and I were playing in our grandpa's car that was parked on the road, I put it into neutral, and we started to roll down the hill, we were screaming, Tim come running, and jumped into the window of the car and stopped it. Thank goodness.
II Corinthians 1: 3-4 reads “Blessed be the God and Father our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our tribulations, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.” When I read this, I pray for our family to receive the Lord’s comfort, mercy, and strength to move forward. I know there are so many unanswered questions and no one will ever know why the Lord chose to take Tim that day but we can all rest assure that it was no mistake (even through all the pain). I know he is in heaven today where there is no pain, no sadness, only peace and joy, singing, and praising God. I like to think that with Tim’s carpentry skills his job in Heaven is to help the Lord prepare the many mansions for the rest of us to share in Paradise some day. (John 14:1- 6).
The Lord is “The Way, the Truth, and the Life”. The Kingdom of Heaven is for eternity and the day Tim took his last breath on earth he took his first breath in Heaven; he was instantly reunited with loved ones that passed before him and a family reunion was celebrated. What a wonderful thing!
So I guess when it comes down to it, the most important thing each of us can do is be right with the Lord, seek forgiveness of our sins, and ask Jesus into our heart as our Lord and Savior and secure our place in Heaven too.
May God bless each family member and friend and may you seek the Lord daily for comfort.
Christy Prier
April 16, 2009
My favorite memory of Tim was when we got the Crazy idea about taking the four wheeler behind Amie & his Mom's house the night after it had poured rain when it used to be a huge mudhole or more like mud soup.(I don't know if it still is) I had some nice clothes on, so I said to Tim,"I don't want to get very muddy, & he says, darlin you won't, with that twinkle in his eye, you all know the twinkle, the one that warned you, not to believe him. So he borrowed some of Amies snowboots she had in her garage for me to wear, & we headed back there in the dark.
Needless to say I have never had so much fun in my life, we came back soooooooooo muddy that if we had stood still in the dark all you could have seen was white teeth & the whites of our eyes. I have blonde hair, & it was so covered in mud you would never had guessed the color. We went back to Tims house because we had to shower and throw our clothes in the washing machine, there was no way I could get in my car & drive home.
He kept laughing at me & telling me, "See Darlin' your not that muddy, I know it's you". We were so muddy we had to get undressed on the porch & hose our clothes off before putting them in the washing machine.
Anyway we ended up having to throw our clothes away jeans & all, because after washing them twice, there was just no way they would ever be any other color but, "mud" again. We laughed so hard that night and stayed up & talked till 3:00 A.M. I have never had so much fun before that, or since then, & to this day I can't help but grin from ear to ear, when I think of that night.
Tim was 15 years older than me, but we never felt an age difference, & I was never more comfortable with anyone, as I was when with him, but, I learned a lesson from him that night, never stop living life, because it might get a little messy, because those are the things you'll miss, that you'll regret later. He was all heart.
Tim also had this saying that I loved, whenever you met someone new. Someone that made you question their intentions. He'd say,"Don't waste your time worrying about it, go on about your life, don't tell them what to do, just give them enough rope & if their intentions aren't true, they'll hang themselves".
He reminded me all the time to focus on the stuff that really mattered, & I'm so thankful for that. I never had to wonder where I fit into his life, he always made sure I knew, I hope he knew how precious he was to me. I'm so thankful to have had him in my life. I miss you baby. Love you always. You were always an angel to me.
Cindy Kohlstaedt
April 16, 2009
Tim used to tease me about being older than him. He'd call me cradle robber. So I would say, "Well you've got more gray hair than me". He would say, "That's not gray hair, those are my chrome highlights".
Patty Kerr
April 15, 2009
It has been a year ago today, since God took you home. I still have the broken heart but some things are gradually getting better. I really don’t think your heart ever mends completely, I am just learning how to cope each day. I try to draw closer to God and learn more about the Bible and Heaven. It is so interesting and the more you read the more you crave it. The book called, “The Shack” and “”Heaven” was so interesting. It really explains a lot and you want to read them over and over. They are very helpful and put a lot of insight about Heaven and the Trinity.
That night when Amie called me, I jumped in my car and started praying. I knew it was bad, when she said, “They life flighted you.” But I prayed all the way to Houston (that’s when I got the call you were gone) that you would hang on at least until I got up here to be able to hold your hand and say good-bye. I think has been the hardest thing for me to accept; I wasn’t there for you at the end. I know Jesus was with you but I wanted to be too.
I had to pull over because my world seem to end and the tears flowed like rain. I was out of control but I know you knew that and so did God. God gave me the strength to finally make it to dads house that night because He knew dad needed me.
You made things so much easier; We were always just able to talk and discuss things and I miss that so much. It was like we drew strength off each other no matter which one of us needed something. I am close to God and work everyday on my relationship with Him as it should be; but sometimes it would be nice to have a person (like you) to talk to confidently.
When you were here I knew you would drop what you were doing and always be there when I really needed you. I don’t think you realize how much you really meant to me and how much I depended on you. It scares me now knowing I don’t have you here and when I really need something your not going to be here to help me. I know it probably sounds selfish but that is how I really feel.
I know we will be together again in Heaven as brother and sister and when my work is done down here on earth; you will be waiting for me there in Heaven. I look forward to that day; So till we meet again. I love you. Sis
Tim with his boys, Chris, Curtis and Cory
April 15, 2009
Billy took this picture during his trip to Sturgis.
Billy Downey
April 15, 2009
Tim, Patty and I grew up together. We were very close in age and spent a lot of time with each other. We spent a lot of time at Grandmas house. If we didn’t like what grandma cooked for dinner, we would always sneak it out to Gretchen (her dog). She always wondered why Gretchen was so fat. We never told her.
As we grew older Tim and I spent a lot of time together. We rode our Harley motorcycles. We really enjoyed spending that time with each other.
Tim and I had planned a trip up to Sturgis ~ South Dakota in June of 2008. Tim never got to make that trip with me. I told Aunt Neita when Tim passed away that I was going to make the trip anyway and take a piece of Tim with me. So I took that piece of Tim with me. I took a small part of his bike with me. I took this picture of me and put Tim over-looking me. He made the ride with me. We were flying free in the wind like an eagle. I took the picture and gave it to Aunt Neita and told her, I kept my word. She was so happy. It brought tears of happiness on the Fourth of July. It meant as much to her as it did to me. I will treasure this picture, the trip and remember taking a part Tim with me forever. I loved him and miss him dearly. He is now riding free and flying safely in the arms of God
Love you always,
Billy (Your Cousin)
Tim with Stetson (his nephew) on his 1st Harley
Stetson Phillips
April 15, 2009
This is one of my favorite pictures of my Uncle Tim and I. I was just a little tike when he gave me a ride on his very 1st Harley. I thought it was so cool. I had to have a do rag just like him. He was so good to me and he loved to tease me all the time. He used to call me “Tater” That was his nickname for me. I was so close to him because he lived by me. My dad (John) and I use to go deer hunting with Tim and the boys every year. We would get up opening morning and get together for breakfast. My mom (Amie) and Tim would each take turns cooking. We would talk over breakfast about what we were going to do. We were always so excited to get out into the woods. We always had BIG PLANS!! The 1st time I ever shot a deer, Tim helped me clean it. He was so excited for me. I will treasure all the times and memories I have of him. I miss him and love him.
Love,
Tater
Sally Rodgers
April 14, 2009
Tim was always full of laughter and a teaser.
In their teen years, Tim and Patty were suppose to help their Mom clean out the garage. Tim’s reply to her was, “I’m not going to do it.” His Mom’s response was, “O yes you are,” and Tim and her started arguing back and forth. Tim ran out the front door & up the street. Before I knew it, here came Tim’s Mom chasing after him. Tim had a soft heart & then apologized to his Mom for what he did.
I loved Tim’s laugh & I think Cory’s laugh is like his.
I sure have missed his Lemon Pies he made for our Thanksgiving Dinners.
Tim is greatly missed by the family.
Our prayers are with him & his family every day.
Love always,
Auntie Jane
Mom
April 14, 2009
One day I had a rough time all day long. I had been crying and just couldn’t get over losing Tim. I was standing at the sink doing my dishes that night. All of a sudden, I felt someone touching my shoulder real lightly; as I turned I seen a shadow pass me. It scared me, but the dog didn’t bark. She always barks if someone’s there. The first thing I thought of was Tim! “You scared me!” I thought Tim, I loved that touch but you startled me as usual. I checked to see if Cody was awake or if some of the kids were in the house but there wasn’t anyone else. So I know it was God and Tim’s way of reaching out to me, to comfort me and let me know that Tim is okay and watching over me and all of his family. I prayed and ask God to help us work through our discouragements, self-pity, anger and depression. I know that Tim is looking down on us and knows our thoughts and feelings. I pray that the Lord gives us the spirit of power, of love and of a calm and well-balanced mind to work through all of this. We may not understand in this lifetime why Tim was taken from us but God makes no mistakes; and in our next lifetime we will understand why he was taken so soon. We have to learn self-discipline and self-control and trust in the Lord. I try to have the mind of Christ and hold His thoughts, feeling, and purpose of His Heart in my heart. Some days it is really hard but I just keep praying a lot. I pray for all our family to find peace and comfort in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
I Love You and Miss You,
MOM
Warren Vandevort
April 14, 2009
One of my memories with Tim was when Uncle Clyde, Tim and I was riding in the car. I had fallen asleep. I was lying there sawing logs. Uncle Clyde put Tim up to stuffing a Kleenex in my mouth to shut me up. I woke up fighting mad. I kept hitting Tim. Uncle Clyde told me if I didn’t quit hitting Tim, he was going to give me a whipping. Tim was always pulling some kind of trick on me. I loved him and really miss him. He was my big and only brother.
Love you,
Your Brother
Sterling Phillips
April 14, 2009
Uncle Tim always called me BUBS. He would say, "HI BUBS" and I'd say, "HI TIM". He would always tickle me. He told me, "I did awesome wheelies on my dirt bike". He use to say, "When you ride your 4-wheeler you go fast and you scare me BUBS". I liked it when he went swimming with us in our pool. He always came to my birthday parties. He also played games with me. I loved it when Uncle Tim came up here. I Love him and Miss him.
BUBS
Cindy Kohlstaedt
April 14, 2009
After Tim got the Fat Boy we spent countless hours riding. Usually with no particular destination in mind,just get on & go. We would get to 50 Hwy and he'd say, left or right? Sometimes I would get home from work to find him waiting, he would say "You feel like ice cream? Get your boots on & put your hair back, let's go for a ride." Sometimes we would ride around Lake Jacomo and go see the buffalo, and then go get an ice cream cone. Or we would head north to Wellington then east on old 224 to Lexington. There was a little ol' run down drive in burger joint there where we would stop for strawberry milkshakes. Then we would cruise over to Fort Osage. Once we rode the backroads from Holden to Sedalia with a group of people we ran into at the burger joint in Holden (we were having banana splits). One of our favorites was a ride Chuck shared with us. We met up with Chuck and a buddy of his & headed up to Wabash BBQ in Excelsior Springs via some winding little two lane road outside Liberty. It was beautiful & became one of our favorite cruising routes. I think the best day was trip to Warsaw. It was a beautiful day & we were trying to figure out how best to enjoy it. John & Amie were down at the lake in their new camper with Kent & Lisa, & we decided we would try to find them and maybe go swimming or eat s'mores or something fun. We headed out early & stopped in Warrensburg for breakfast. Made friends with other riders we'd passed on 50 hwy that also stopped for breakfast. Then we headed for Sedalia. Stopped at the Harley store & did a little shopping, and ran into some of our breakfast companions again, & visited with other riders we had seen on the road. Then we headed toward the lake. We had no idea where John & Amie were & minimal phone service (& it was HOT!) We drove around the lake a little then ended up in Warsaw (never found Amie). We got something to eat (& ice cream) and headed for Clinton. This was right after the building collapsed on their downtown square, so we wanted to check it out. Then we went to visit the fire station. Tim had gone to fire school with some of the guys there & wanted to say hi. After that we headed home, hot & tired, with sore behinds. That night we went to the race track in Warrensburg. Again we made friends with the people sitting all around us. We were sitting by turn four. They wet the dirt track down for better traction. By the time they hit that 4th turn they're going really fast and kicking up mud balls. These mud balls would come launching over and through the fence right at our little group of spectators. We were continously bombarded throughout the evening. We had mud on our faces, in our hair, all over our clothes, arms, even in our mouths...it was hysterical! One time Tim hollared INCOMING! Then he ducked & the mud balls hit and stuck to the sunglasses of the guy behind us. I thought we were all going to pee our pants we laughed so hard (including the guy who got nailed). After the race there was a fireworks display. It was fun going to the races after that & seeing all those people again & dodging incoming mud balls. I have so many wonderful memories of the three years I spent with Tim, but that day was one of the best. He was more than my boyfriend, he was my best friend. I will carry that special bond in my heart for the rest of my days. I miss you babe.
Patty
April 13, 2009
In October of 2007 I called Tim because dad was sick. He came down and we took dad to Springfield to the hospital. They ended up keeping him so we ran to Walmart to get some things we needed. I had to go to the bathroom so I left Tim standing there with my cart and my purse. When I came out I was running here and there down all the isles trying to hurry so we could get back to the hospital to be with dad. All of a sudden he yelled, "Patty! Patty! Patty! Stop!" I said, "What!" He said, "Wait a minute till that man leaves". The man left and he said, "You got a big piece of toilet paper hanging out of your shorts". I started twisting around, yanking and pulling at my shorts. I said, "Where?" Then I looked at him and he started laughing. It was all a joke. I never lived it down. He said, "I had moves that Elvis Presley never even thought of".
I also asked him one night when we were there if I could put my false teeth in his pocket. He yelled, "NO" and I said why they won't bite you. He just started laughing. We were so tired we just got goofier with each night we had to stay at the hospital. It was a scary time in our lives but one I cherish too.
Love Ya
SIS
Tim, Chris and Bob (Tim's dad)
April 13, 2009
Tim taking Shania (his niece) for a ride on his 4-wheeler
Sissy
April 13, 2009
I lost a wonderful uncle! He lived by me since I was born. The summer of 2008 he told me he would give me a ride on his motorcycle. I never got to ride on his motorcycle with him. My mom, brothers and I would go down and eat his famous stew with homemade bread; Although I don't like stew it was nice to hang out and talk. I would eat his ramen noodles and his homemade bread. He was always teasing me. I love him and miss him!
Love,
Sissy
Chris, Curtis, Cory and Neita (their grandma) on Easter Sunday
Mom
April 13, 2009
One of the things I cherish is that he lived with us for approx. 10 years. I spent alot of time with him and the boys. He had moved out but kept his bikes in our garage. Tim still popped in and out alot at our house. He always came down to work and clean on his bikes. Alot of times when he was cleaning on them he would holler up at me, “MOM” and I would say, “What” and he’d say, “Come down and talk to me while I clean my bikes”, so I would go down and we’d talk and he’d show me all the neat things he loved about them. We’d get to talking and the hours would pass before we knew it. I also used to love to cook extra food when I cooked dinner for Cody and I and I would either give it to Tim when he came over or I would surprise him and go down and stick it in his frig. He loved to take the leftovers in his lunch. One of his favorites was my meatloaf. I am thankful for all the times we spent with him and the boys. Tim left me with a lot of special memories to hold onto and treasure for a lifetime.
Tim & I (Cindy) at Curtis and Cory's 18th birthday party
Cindy Kohlstaedt
April 13, 2009
What Tim loved, he love fiercely. What he disliked, he disliked with that same intensity. He loved his boys. He loved Bubby, although the boys would say it was the other way around, with that "big 'ol brown dog" being first. :) He loved his family and friends, Charles Stanley, coffee on the front porch, helping people, Forrest Gump, my pasta salad, toast with apple butter...the list is long. He didn't like loading the stove in the middle of a cold winter night, liars, braggers, being sick and snakes. I'll never forget Tim 'the snake catcher' with that walking stick and welders gloves removing the snakes that kept finding there way in at his mom's. It totally gave him the 'heebie-jeebies' at first. But after awhile he was pretty good at it, and not quite so creeped out. But he sure was glad when it was over. Then there was that one love/hate relationship...cutting wood. Every year as summer came to an end he would start fretting over wood. Where was he going to find it; would he find enough; when would he find time to cut, split & stack it; would he get it done before winter...? Throughout the fall he was obsessed, grumbling about wood on a daily basis, and talking about moving. All plans were worked around cutting wood. But every year he was always blessed with an ample supply of wood and more than enough time to get it all done before the weather turned cold. And even though he grumbled about it, he secretly enjoyed the whole process. It was theraputic for him as he spent hours at a time outside, working up a sweat, doing what needed to be done, alone with his thoughts, contemplating life. Besides, cutting wood meant spending less on propane, and we all know how tight he was with his money :) I loved him deeply and miss him very much. I miss his smile, his laugh, his handsome face, his smell, his funny sayings. I miss his arms around me (I always felt safe there). The Lord is healing my broken heart one day at a time and I pray the same for each of you who also loved that very special man.
Tim and his Red Car
Mom
April 13, 2009
One of my favorite memories was one time when Tim was about 16 or so he and I were racing down 24 highway. He was in his little red car with Mark, Robert, and Warren. I ended up getting pulled over by the police and Tim went on. I was thinking the whole time waiting for the police officer to get to my car what story was I going to tell him. I thought I couldn’t tell him I was racing my son. So I told the police officer that they were harassing me and I was trying to get away from them. I no sooner got that out of my mouth and here comes Tim with a whole load of boys in the car and they all yelled out the window “HI MOM”. The officer said, “Do you know them”. And I said, “NO I don’t know them” and he said, “Well how come they just called you mom” and I said, “I don’t know”. So he said, “He was going to let me go”, but he told me, “I shouldn’t be doing that”. When I got home Tim and his friends were laughing and kept saying you got a ticket, you got a ticket and I said, “NO I didn’t”. They said, “Oh yes you did” and I said, “No I really didn’t”. He let me go. Tim never forgot that day. He loved to tell that story to people and laugh about it as he grew into an adult. Tim was always up to something onery. He always had a trick up his sleeve.
Love,
MOM
Tim and Neita (his mom)
Mom
April 12, 2009
My Beautiful Son Tim:
I can’t believe it will soon be a year since God took you home. I know you are in heaven but I miss you so very much. I’m trying so hard to be a good person so I will be with you someday. I look at your baby pictures and remember how sweet you always were from the first time I held you to the last time I kissed you goodbye. I know I should be happy for the 48 wonderful years I had with you, but somehow it just wasn’t enough. It doesn’t matter, no amount of years would have been enough. It just doesn’t seem right, I should have gone before you. I know you told me you were afraid of how you couldn’t take it when I died. Well as your mother who loves you so much (I’m taking the pain for you and that’s the way I want it.) I don’t know if you know this but I miss you more and more everyday and I love you more and more too. Till we meet again my beautiful son. God love you and take care of you for me. I thank God and you for leaving me your three wonderful sons, Chris, Curtis and Cory. With out them life would be so much more lonely. I love you so much. I take comfort in knowing that I now have a very special guardian angel watching over me. Mothers and Sons have special unities that they share between them.
I Love You and Miss You Dearly,
Your Mother
Tim with his car and Fritz in the yard
Dad
April 11, 2009
Some of my other memories of Tim were when I taught him his first cuss word. (Not meaning too) I was out working on my car and the motor was still hot and I was trying to replace sparkplugs in it. I hit my arm and burnt it. I said a cuss word. The next day Tim was working on his car and couldn’t do something he was wanting too. He repeated my cuss word. When I got home from work Neita asked me, “Have you been cussing in front of Tim?” I told her I slipped and said one yesterday when I burnt my arm on the car. She informed me that Tim had repeated it when he was working on his car that day.
Tim loved his little dash hound dog named Fritz. We would go down to Silver Dollar City. One time when we were down there, this man was swimming and he lost his false teeth in the pool. The man couldn’t swim to well. Tim and Patty could both swim good. They got in there to find his false teeth. Tim found them. We took Fritz down there with us. Tim would get out in the water and splash a lot. Fritz thought Tim might be in trouble so Fritz would jump in after Tim to help him. That dog loved Tim as much as Tim loved his onie tater (Fritz his dog.)
Some more of my memories with Tim, are when he had his first car. He had gone out to the Independence Center. He had been running his car through large snow banks. He got his car hung up. He called me to come and help him. When I got out there, he had snow plum up between the motor, radiator and fan belt. We got all the snow out and he was back on the road again.
I was also lucky to work with him at General Mills as he became older. I got to see him daily there. He was a great mechanic and could do anything he put his mind too.
He helped me in so many ways after I retired. He was always there for me anytime I needed him whether it be redoing my bathroom, power washing my fence, or just coming down to spend time with me. Tim will live forever in my heart. No greater bond is there then between a parent and a child.
I Miss You and Love You,
Dad
Tim on his bouncy horse with Patty in the yard
Dad
April 11, 2009
This is one of my memorable moments with my son, when he was approximately one year of age he had a bouncy horse. He loved that horse. He would bounce from room to room all through the whole house. He would get it going so fast. I just loved to watch him.
Love you,
Dad
Tim and Amie (his sister) in my kitchen on Christmas morning
Amie Phillips
April 11, 2009
On April 15th I lost someone very dear to me. Tim was my brother. I cherish all our memories and time we had together. I was fortunate to live next door to him for the last 15 years or so. He was always there for me and was just a phone call away whether it was in a time of need or just to call and chat.
We always answered our phone calls to each other with a “Talk To Me”.
I wish I wouldn’t have taken our time together for granted.
Our time was cut to short. I guess I thought he’d always be here.
Although, I am thankful for our memories from our child hood to our adult hood. Whether it was as simple as him chasing me down the hall when I was younger, just to see my hair fly, my nickname he gave me (SCOOTS), him scaring me about Santa Claus jumping in bed with me on Christmas Eve, chasing me with June bugs, him popping in for a haircut or me setting at his house eating his famous stew and home made bread with him. He was such a good cook. I always gave him trouble at Thanksgiving and Christmas time about making me lemon meringue pies. So the last 2 years he would come up early in the morning with my special delivery. I always hid them in the back of the frig. He was a great man in so many ways. I treasure the relationship we had and I am honored to call Tim my brother. I loved him and miss him daily.
He left a great legacy behind in his sons. He lives on through them.
Chris, Curtis and Cory, I will always be here for you.
Love Ya Boys!!
Aunt Amie
Warren Vandevort
April 9, 2009
My memories of my brother, Tim and I went to Silver Dollar City with our family. We each got us one of the hillbilly hats. After we got back home, we were out in the backyard acting like we were hillbillies.
Another memory I have was when Tim, Robert and I went to pick up Mark Wells at Arthur Treacher Fish and Chips. The only way to get Tim’s glove box open was to hit it with a bat. Robert decided he needed to eat so he had to get his wallet out of the glove box. He got the bat and started hitting it and the police came. Robert and I were in the car and they told us to get out. They thought we were breaking into Tim’s car. Tim was inside with Mark. I was scared to get out of the car and the police were getting mad at me. Finally Tim came out and told the police that it was his car and we were with him. Mark told Tim, “Let the police take them”. Tim said, “I’m not going to do that to them”. Then we were on our way. I loved him and will always miss him.
Love, Warren
Tim and Patty (his sister)
Patty Kerr
April 9, 2009
I am very happy I spent that weekend with Tim before he went to be with the Lord. We had a wonderful time. We laughed so hard and cracked so many jokes.
Tim got up and cooked us one of his wonderful breakfasts. He even made cinnamon rolls. He was a great cook. He came and jumped in bed with me saying, “Come on get up”. I asked him. “What time is it, “He said, its seven. I said, “You have got to be kidding!” Then I was setting in his chair falling asleep. He said, “You really are still tired aren’t you”? And started that great laugh of his. I said, “Yep.” I laid there and fell asleep. The next thing I knew I felt like someone was close to me and opened up my eyes. There was Tim taping me on his cell phone. I was sleeping and snoring away. He was laughing so hard he couldn’t hardly stand it and so was dad. I made their day.
It’s seemed we grew closer the last 2 years and I am so thankful for that. He is also the one who turned me onto Charles Stanley and receiving his monthly magazines and another Christian magazine too. I was at his house and he showed them too me. He went on line and ordered them for me. He showed me where to order several Christian books to read and so I got on there and ordered new ones when I finished the ones I had.
I am so thankful he was into the Lord. He may not of went to church faithfully every Sunday but that does not mean he did not get into Heaven. He believed in the Lord and was so faithful and I know he is in Heaven. Jesus came and took his hand and said, “Son you’re coming home with Me”.
He did many wonderful things in his life and was there to help any person who needed him. We had that different kind of relationship that develops, as you grow older.
I really believe God put me at his house that weekend, because He knew I needed that time with him. I left there on Monday and got the call on Tuesday night. I am thankful for that weekend. I will always remember it. My heart is filled with joyful times and memories of our life as brother and sister.
I Love You and Miss You,
Patty
Tim, Chris and Aunt Sylvia
Sylvia Cook
April 8, 2009
Some of my favorite memories with Tim are from his younger days when he came to spend the summer with me.
I asked Tim and Danny to go out and burn the trash. I was resting out in the yard. All of a sudden the hogs started squealing. I looked to see what all the commotion was about. There was Tim and Danny with hot sticks branding the hogs. Tim got his 1st whippin from me that day.
Another time I caught Tim and Danny jumping on the hogs trying to ride them. What one of them didn't think of the other one did.
From his childhood to his adult years I enjoyed my time with him. I had lots of laughs about the things Tim and Danny tried to get away with.
He was very special to me and I loved him very much.
Uncle Lloyd and Aunt Sylvia
Patty and Amie
April 8, 2009
Tim loved to visit down on the farm at Uncle Lloyd an Aunt Sylvia's house. The Lord took Uncle Lloyd to be with Him a few years ago. So Amie and I wanted to share some special memories Tim had with Uncle Lloyd on the farm.
After a hard days work in the hay field, he would always take us to Akers Ferry at the river. The river was very cold and felt good after being in the hay field all day.
Then in the evening, He'd say, "come on kids lets load up". We would all load up on a flat bed truck and he would take us on rides through the woods. He would take us up Patton Hill. When we got about to the top, he would let the truck go down backwards for a while and give us all a scare. We had a blast and would all scream. Uncle Lloyd always pointed out wildlife to us. We looked forward to this ride every evening.
One time, he took us bullfrog hunting. One got loose in the old panel truck. We all started yelling.
Uncle Lloyd treated us kids like one of his own. Their home was always open to all the kids from Hartshorn to Summersville.
Every time dad had time off from work, we always wanted to go to the farm.
Tim got in trouble in school for day-dreaming. His teacher asked, "Tim what are you doing" He said, "Just day-dreaming about the farm".
He had lots of good times down there and left us with many good memories.
Tim and Aunt Billy - At Bob's House
Billy Cook
April 7, 2009
One of my fondest memories of Tim when he was small. He came to visit us at the farm.
I had a big 30 gallon iron kettle. I collected rain water in to do my washing.
I looked out the window because Tim, Cathy and Danny were being so quiet.
To my surprise: Tim had my cat dunking it under water. I hollered out there, "What are you doing!" and he replied,"I am baptizing your cat".
We had alot of great times and special memories.
Tim and Uncle Clyde - Who's got the upper hand with the best story this time?
Clyde Cook
April 7, 2009
Tim use to come to the farm and visit us during the summer months. One of my favorite memories when he was younger was in the hay field. We were racing about 1/4 of a mile across the hay field to get to dinner. I could tell Tim was about ready to give out. We both kept on running and I ended up beating him.
As he grew older sometimes we gave that look to each other "Who's got the best story or upper hand of this conversation this time".
One of our most favorite sayings when people started repeating themselves over and over was "Let's start the chainsaws".
Tim was a special nephew and I loved him dearly.
Cousins on the Farm
April 7, 2009
Some of our memories of Tim being on the farm with us are when we would all go out in the yard and play games. We played kick the can, red rover, moonlight-starlight, leap-frog,and hide-in-seek. Sylvia and Neita would go outside and play with us. We had so much fun. They would get right in there and play leap frog and all the rest of the games with us too. That made it even more fun and special too. We also would go up to the hay barn and play on the hay bales. We went to the saw mill and would make tunnels all through the saw dust piles. When it rained alot we would go down to the valley run and run our boats (we made out of sticks) down stream. We looked forward to his visits. He is missed by all of us.
The alligator rock.
April 6, 2009
Judy Barton
March 27, 2009
Tim was a very special man. He was an even more special cousin. His smile always lit up the room. He is missed greatly. May God continue to bless and watch over his sons, parents, and siblings.
Jackie Cooper
March 25, 2009
Tim I miss you...
I still can't believe Tim is gone. I find myself wanting to share something with him, then I remember he is gone.
Tim was such a thoughtful, giving person. When my Dad died 5 years ago, Tim made the long 5-hour drive from his home to Summersville (in southern Missouri) for Dad's visitation.
He waited in line. Spoke with me. Hugged me. Stayed about 10 minutes, then got back in his pickup and started the 5-hour drive back to his home.
He went to work the very next morning. I am sure he didn't get to sleep any before going to work the next day.
Tim worked so many hours all the time....just imagine him driving the total of 10 hours to be at my Dad's visitation just long enough to give me support through a difficult time in my life.
He helped me on my farm one day burn some bush piles. He saw how long it took me to get them started burning. He told me he would wanted to give me something that would help me a lot.
He gave me small, propane torch. I still use it so much on my farm. I always think of him when I use it. I told him many times it was one of the best presents I had ever received. He would laugh, he knew I was serious.
He also saw how I had a hard time hooking my cart behind my four-wheeler which I use to work with often. He put a ball and hitch on them so it was easy for me to use. I also think of that every time I hook them together.
We went to Akers Ferry one day on Current River and skipped rocks. We had so much fun that day.
He found a rock while we were there which he said looked like an alligator's head. I found some craw-dad pinchers, held it up to the rock so his alligator-rock looked like it had teeth.
We both laughed about it.
He was so surprised when I he opened the package I mailed him with that rock in it....there was his gator with the craw-dad teeth and superglued eyes on it.
Tim had a shelf in his home where he kept things special to him. He kept his gator on that shelf. Now that gator-rock is in my kitchen window, looking at me while I do dishes. He would have like that. It would have made him laugh.
I miss Tim so very much.
Patty Kerr
December 28, 2008
MERRY CHRISTMAS IN HEAVEN!
I am a little late writing this. I was up at mom's and didn't get on the computer. I wanted to let you know that you was thought of and missed dearly. We all go together including all of your boys. We said a prayer for you and for our little brother. I know you know he is having alot of problems but the family is working together to help him work things out. I just wanted to let you know we love you and miss you and I know you filled another seat at another table this Christmas! I love you, Sis
P KERR
November 27, 2008
HAPPY THANKSGIVING IN HEAVEN. WE WILL BE THINKING OF YOU AND MISS YOU VERY MUCH!
YOUR BEAUTIFUL EYES, YOUR TENDER HEART, AND A SMILE THAT WAS SO SWEET.
WHEN YOU WAS IN MY LIFE
IT FELT SO COMPLETE.
YOU ALWAYS MADE ME LAUGH
YOUR ONEROUS MADE THE WORLD GO ROUND
AND WITH YOU THERE,
JOY WAS SURE TO BE FOUND
I JUST WANT YOU TO KNOW
AND HOPE THAT YOU CAN SEE
YOU WERE A VERY SPECIAL AND PRECIOUS BROTHER TO ME.
AND I AM SO GLAD THAT GOD SHARED YOU WITH ME.
ITS HARD TO SEE TOMORROW
WHEN SOMEONE I LOVE IS GONE
ITS EVEN HARDER TO REALIZE THAT MY LIFE WILL STILL GO ON
I KNOW THE LORD WONT GIVE ME MORE BURDENS THEN I CAN BARE
(BUT I REALLY THINK MY CUP IS FULL)
HE WONT LEAVE ME COMFORTLESS AND KNOWS I WILL FIND HIM HERE.
WE ARE ALL GODS CHILDREN,
DOWN ON EARTH AND UP ABOVE
AND YOU ARE WALKING CLOSE WITH GOD
AND SURROUNDED WITH HIS LOVE!
BUT I REALLY MISS YOU ALOT STILL.
HAPPY THANKGIVING..I LOVE YOU SIS
P KERR
September 9, 2008
DEAR TIM, HAPPY BIRTHDAY IN HEAVEN. I KNOW YOU ARE HAPPY BUT ITS STILL AWFUL ROUGH DOWN HERE. WE ALL MISS YOU SO MUCH. NOT HAVING YOU TO TALK TOO OR CONFIDE IN IS SO HARD. THE TEARS STILL FALL QUITE OFTEN. JUST WANTED TO WISH YOU A HAPPY BIRTHDAY AND LET YOU KNOW I LOVE AND MISS YOU EVERY MOMENT OF LIFE. PLEASE KEEP A WATCHFUL EYE ON ALL OF US AND KEEP PRAYING FOR US TOO. LOVE YOU BUNCHES, SIS
NEITA COCHRAN
September 9, 2008
DEAR TIM, HAPPY BIRTHDAY HONEY ,YOU WERE ALWAYS HAPPY THAT I REMEMBERED YOUR BIRTHDAY AND
NOW MORE THAN EVER I WILL NEVER FORGET WE ALL LOVE AND MISS YOU SO MUCH. YOUR SONS ARE SO SPECIAL TO US WE ARE ALWAYS THERE FOR THEM BUT WE KNOW NO ONE CAN TAKE DADDYS PLACE AGAIN HAPPY BIRTHDAY LOVE MOM AND POPS
Patty Kerr
May 13, 2008
Dearest Brother,
Today has been 4 weeks since we lost you. That was the most horrible day in my life. I am so used to talking to you that there is a real emptiness. They say time will help but I know it won't I think that I will learn how to cope with it. Derek had baccalaureate on Sunday and they sung the song they played at your funeral. Amazing Grace (The Chains Are Gone). I started crying, A friend of ours sang it acappella and with her dad, it was beautiful. Everyone said, "That you was there with me." We have had several things going on since we lost you. Your boys had prom (they looked so handsome, alot like you) and I had Dereks graduation party. I got you some flowers and took your picture so that you was there with us. I knew you were looking down on us. Your boys graduate this coming Friday May 16, 2008. I am really going to miss you and hate that you will not be there physically but I know your spirit will be with us and looking down smiling. I know you were so proud of them and it saddens me horribly that you won't be there for that wonderful time in their life. You had the most wonderful funeral service. You had the most firends and family that I have ever seen show up for a visitation and funeral service. You had so many wonderful friends and touched so many lives and losing you was such sad time in my life. I don't know if I will ever be able to get over losing you. I love you and miss you very much and I just wanted you to know that I still think of you constantly. All of our family and friends will do their very best to make your son's graduation a wonderful time and memory.
Love You Dearly,
Patty (Sister)
Patty Kerr
April 26, 2008
To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."
It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man."
God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.
If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.
So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.
And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me.
Ruth Ann Mahaffey (author)
©Copyright 1998-2008
Patty Kerr
April 26, 2008
My Dearest Brother,
You were the greatest brother a sister could ever ask for. You were always were just a phone call away and you would be right there. You never let me down.
I apreciate the ways you helped me out. You had a real talent for knowing just when I needed you most. I could always count on you for encouragement and support; together we always seemed to make things work out.
I could always talk to you with the greatest of confidence knowing you would never tell anyone. After our talks, I always felt so much better. No person will ever be able to replace the qualities you had for listening and understanding. I feel so lost and broken hearted.
When dad was in the hospital and we made our pack, neither of us ever broke it.
You weren't susposed to leave this world before me. I always thought I would be the first to go. Your leaving has really tore me apart.
I just wanted to let you know you meant the world to me. Only a heart as dear as yours could give so unselfishly. The many things you've done and all the times that you were there, helped me to know deep down inside just how much you really cared. I feel so richly blessed to have a brother like you.
You left us with three wonderful and very special boys to carry on your legacy. A part of you lives through them. I know you loved them dearly and was very proud of them. I wish their time and ours was not cut so short with you but only the Lord knows why.
You brought something special to our family and things just are not going to be the same without you. We had so few years with many smiles and tears.
To my Doe-Ing ( I couldn't prounce Tim so this was what I called him when we were small)
We ran and played and shared our toys
How I remember those childhood joys
We shared a home with mom and dad
Those memories now make me glad
I looked to you when times were bad
You saw my face when it was sad
We saw each other less these days
But you were close to me always
I love you brother from the start
The ties that bind us, lives in my heart.
A Brother Like You
Someone who would understand
Who knew the way I felt
In every situation
His concerns were very real
Someone who had walked my ways
Who knew my every need
Times when he would see me cry
His heart would nearly die
Everyone should have a brother
Just the way I did
Richly blessed was what I was
To have a brother like TIM!
I love and miss you dearly. I keep trying to comfort myself because I know you are with Jesus and looking down on all of us..
LOVE YOU , SIS
Tim with his bike at Lake Jacomo
Chuck Dye
April 23, 2008
Tim and I at Lake Jacomo. We had just stoped to relax. We had a great time that day. I will aways remember Tim. He was always talking about his boys. He was so proud of them. I am proud of them too. Tim has set the bar for you boys and I know that you will exceed it. Your Uncle Chuck
CHRISTY PRIER
April 21, 2008
TIM WAS THE MOST AMAZING MAN I HAVE EVER KNOWN. BEAUTIFUL SOUL, LOVE OF MY LIFE, BEST FRIEND I WILL EVER HAVE . KNOWING HIM MADE YOU FEEL LOVED & NEEDED. YOU KNEW YOU COULD BE YOU & HE'D LOVE YOU MORE FOR IT. HE WAS ALWAYS THERE FOR ME, SOMETIMES EVEN BEFORE I KNEW I NEEDED HIM TO BE. SOMEHOW HE JUST KNEW. YOU ALWAYS KNEW THAT HE WAS A GENUINE FRIEND. COMPLETE HONESTY & TRUST IS WHAT YOU KNEW YOU COULD EXPECT FROM TIM IN EVERY MOMENT OF HIS LIFE. I FEEL HONERED TO HAVE BEEN A PART OF HIS LIFE. I LOVED HIM DEEPLY AND COMPLETELY IN EVERY MOMENT OF OUR FRIENDSHIP THAT STARTED 12 YEARS AGO. I HOPE HE KNEW THAT. I WILL MISS HIM DEEPLY. THERE IS NO ONE ELSE LIKE HIM, HE WAS TRULY ONE OF A KIND. GOD BLESS HIS BOYS & HIS FAMILY. I KNOW HE LOVED THEM GREATLY.
Heath Newby
April 21, 2008
You are in our thoughts and prayers. Heath, Amanda Jo, Cole, and Caylyn Newby
Dottie Dee Shanna Brenda West
April 21, 2008
The Tim I knew appreicated the simple things in life. He truly knew the value of a smile, and the joy from a joke. Whenever I would answer the phone and hear. "Hello Darling," I knew it was Tim. He visited our office every month to pay his insurance. We usually talked about kids, riding motorcycles, relationships and how we were charging him too much for his insurance. Our office loved Tim and will deeply miss him.I will always hold a special place in my heart where I will carry his memories. Ride in the wind of eternity, my brother. You will never be forgotten.
Jeff,Judy,Derek,Brent,Chris Fannin
April 21, 2008
You will all be in our prayers. Curtis and Corey, you are always welcome at our house no matter what time of the day or night or for what reason. The door is always open. God Bless.
Terri Dye
April 20, 2008
My favorite thing about Tim was that everytime he saw me he always called me by my nickname "Eugene".
Phillip & Anna Kerr
April 20, 2008
Having both lost parents as teenagers our hearts go out first to his children. Knowing he was a truely loved father, son, brother and uncle our prayers go out to all of those who were closest to him.
Cindy Kohlstaedt
April 20, 2008
I loved Tim more than he ever realized. But I think the same could be said by most people who knew him. I don't believe he ever truly realized the positive impact he had on those around him. I don't know that he ever really knew how much he was loved, appreciated, needed and admired. He helped everyone he knew and never expected anything more than a thank you in return. His passing has left a great void in the lives of so many - family, friends, co-workers. Cory, Curtis, Chris - I love you guys and pray the Lord will bring you comfort.
Dana Barker
April 20, 2008
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.
Margaret Cross
April 19, 2008
I worked with Tim at General Mills for several years. He was a joy to work with. My heart goes out to the whole family and you are in my prayers. May God be with you.
Amy Matous
April 18, 2008
I am deeply saddened to hear of Tim's untimely death. My heart goes out to his sons. I worked with Tim when he was a volunteer firefighter and first responder with the Lone Jack Fire Protection District. It takes a special person to volunteer their time to help other people, but Tim fit that bill perfectly. He took pride in the uniform he wore, took pride in the fact that he was a part of something bigger than the small town that it protected. What I hope Tim knows now is that he was so much a part of something so very much bigger- a family of those who are always ready to answer the call for help. If there is a volunteer fire department in heaven, Tim's on it. Heaven's gain is so very much our loss. You are in my prayers Chris, Cory and Curtis.
Amy Matous
Michelle and Douglas Heacock
April 18, 2008
One of the few who can honestly accept who you are disregarding outward appearances. What a great man to know and what an honor to work with his son.
Cynthia & Gabriel Denham
April 18, 2008
Tim was one of those special people in the world that are few & far between, everyone loved him wether you knew him for years or just met him. He will be greatly missed.
Mark Brown
April 18, 2008
I have had the pleasure of working with and having Tim as a friend for the last 10 years. I will miss him greatly.
Jack Youngs
April 18, 2008
I worked with Tim at General Mills for several years. He was a good friend and I will miss him. My sympathy goes out to his family and friends.
CYNDI DENHAM
April 18, 2008
Tim was a man that would give his life for his neighbor, friends, and family. I will greatly miss his smile and example to the world of unconditional love. Tim was there at different low points in my life to do the little extras that help in a big way when you feel down. Thank you Tim for touching my life. I will pray that your family finds peace of mind and they receive all the blessings that were in store for your wonderful family and to you. May God bless the whole family! We will all miss you Tim and love you. Cyndi Denham, Shelbi Slater and family
Brenda Reavis
April 18, 2008
Tim will be missed by all those who
knew and loved him. Tim loved his boys and enjoyed spending time with them. May God Bless you during this difficult time.
Keith Fortin
April 18, 2008
I have been blessed to have worked with Tim for the past 7 years. He was always quick with a laugh and a joy to talk to. If you know one thing about Tim it's how proud he was of his boys and how much he loved them. I will miss him.
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The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
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The Five Stages of Grief
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Read moreWays to honor Robert Vandevort's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
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These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
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