David Michael Tinley

In Loving Memory of David Michael Tinley

David Michael (Butera) Tinley passed away surrounded by his loving family on September 28, 2025.

David was born in Rockford, Illinois on November 15,1956 to Georgia (Pease) Butera Tinley and Anthony Butera. Upon graduating high school at the age of 17, David moved to Panama City Beach, Florida where he worked 3 jobs and put himself through college. He was then recruited by Westinghouse Electric Corporation in Pittsburgh to work in the research and development group. He received his master's degree in electrical engineering/computer programming from Carnegie Mellon University while at Westinghouse. During this time, David and three colleagues were granted a United States patent in 1994. After leaving Westinghouse, David founded his own computer programming company and built complex computer code for various companies.

In the early '80's, David and other Westinghouse engineers started a twice weekly ultimate frisbee or basketball game, depending on the season. It was small at first but grew over the years with older and younger players joining to stay active and have some fun competition. These activities forged lifelong friendships with amazing people, and our family thanks you all for your kindness.

David met his first wife Marlene McConnell in Monroeville, and they married in 1987. David and Marlene were fortunate to welcome three children: Calley, Tessa, and Tynan. After Marlene's passing in 2000, David met Lisa (Brumbaugh) Hovis Tinley and they were married in 2002. Lisa brought her little girl Jenna Hovis, and they began blending a family with four little kids with an abundance of love and laughter.

David was infinitely patient with everyone in his life. He was kind, forgiving, and gentle. Despite his frequent 14-16 hour days programming at work and at home late in the evenings, he always had time to help solve difficult homework (or life) problems. His work ethic inspired all four kids, as did his commitment to his family; David never missed a dance competition or sports meet. David's fascination with the universe and space exploration instilled a love of science and learning in every member of his family. One of David's passions was snorkeling, and he did it all over the world, including during the many awe-inspiring yearly vacations he planned for his family.

David had an amazing intellect, boundless compassion, and the best sense of humor. If he loved you, you knew it. There are very few people in this world who are perfectly, innately good, and we were lucky enough to love one of them. David will be missed beyond measure. And we will continue his tradition of taking sunset pictures at the beach.

David was preceded in death by his biological father Anthony Butera, his mother Georgia Tinley, his first wife Marlene Tinley, and his youngest brother Andrew Tinley.

He is survived by his best friend, travel buddy, confidante, and loving wife Lisa Tinley, daughter Calley Tinley-Klump (Bobby Klump), daughter Jenna Hovis Sims (Brenden Sims), daughter Tessa (Tinley) King (Spencer King), and son Tynan Tinley, as well as his grandchildren Gavin Klump, Rowan Klump, Landon Sims, and Winifred King, all of whom he adored. David is also survived by his extended family and wonderful friends Jeff Hovis and Dan Prevade, and his younger brother Bruce Butera (Penny) of Venice, Fl.

Our family will forever be grateful to UPMC Mercy Brain Trauma Rehab and Neuro ICU Floor nurses, staff, PT/OT team, and Dr. Kevin Franzese. To our second family of apheresis nurses at Mercy: you were truly the highlight of his treatments there, with your wit, compassion, and true love for your patients. Thank you isn't enough. Additional thanks to Dr. Anthony Pinevich for your kindness, expertise, and willingness to go the extra mile for David. We also want to acknowledge Dr. Jenny Linnoila, Dr. Daniella Schwartz, and Dr. Anthony Spinola of UPMC for their world-class care and tireless search for answers. We are forever grateful.

Family and friends will be received from 3-7 PM on Tuesday, September 30 at Lindsay-Jobe Funeral Home, Inc., 3343 Route 130, PO Box 465, Harrison City, 724-744-2721, where David's life will be celebrated at 10:30 AM on Wednesday, October 1. In lieu of flowers, please consider memorial contributions to the Undiagnosed Diseases Network by visiting undiagnosed.hms.harvard.edu/. Lindsay-JobeFuneralHome.com.