James Timothy Stanholtzer

James Timothy “Tim” Shanholtzer of Chapel Hill, North Carolina, lived an active, independent, and adventurous life well into his late 70s. On February 3rd, 2026, he passed peacefully at the age of 78.

Tim was born and raised in Springfield, Missouri, a place that remained very close to his heart. A mechanical engineer by training, he was best known in Springfield as the elevator inspector — his signature appeared in elevators across the city for decades, a quiet testament to his meticulous work and professional pride.

After retirement, Tim embraced his love for adventure. He bought an RV and set off to see the country, traveling from the tip of Florida into Canada and from coast to coast. He especially loved the beach, where he and his beloved dog Cotton would walk through the sand together. Nature brought him peace, and travel brought him joy.

Tim had a brilliant mind, a generous heart, and a wonderfully snarky sense of humor. He was deeply devoted to his daughter, Jessica, and was, in her words, the best father she could have ever hoped for.

Throughout his life, dogs were his close companions. Cotton traveled the country with him as his constant partner. Later in life, Pepper — a rescue from the ASPCA — became his loyal couch buddy and walking partner. Pepper now lives with Jessica and her wife, Faith, where he is part of the family and well loved.

In addition to his daughter, Jessica Regn, and her wife Faith Regn, Tim is survived by his brother, Stephen Shanholtzer, and sister-in-law, Diane Shanholtzer, along with their children and grandchildren, who all held a special place in his heart.

Tim will be cremated, and in keeping with his wishes, there will be no formal service. Jessica and Faith plan to scatter his ashes off Sugarloaf Key in the Florida Keys, a place that was a very special part of his travels.

In lieu of flowers, we ask that donations be made in Tim’s honor to the ASPCA, an organization he supported monthly and cared about deeply.