Richard Paul Timko

Richard Paul Timko, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away on Saturday, November 29, 2025, leaving behind a lifetime defined by love, generosity, and unwavering faith. Born on December 21, 1943, in Granite City, IL, Richard was the son of Andrew P. Timko Jr. and Bernice (Boelling) Timko. He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Robert; his in-laws, Lawrence and Eloise Doyle; and many cherished friends. He is survived by his loving wife, Phyllis; his brother Steve (Debbie) Timko; his brothers- and sisters-in-law; his five children; and his ten treasured grandchildren. Richard attended St. Joseph's School in Granite City and graduated from Assumption High School in 1961. He graduated from SIUE in 1965 with degrees in Psychology and Mathematics. Richard earned his Masters in 1969, with a degree in counseling. Not long after, a blind date introduced him to the love of his life, a beautiful Irish Catholic girl named Phyllis Doyle. They married on November 19, 1966, and recently celebrated 59 wonderful years of marriage. Together they raised five children-Stephanie (Shane) Griesemer, Rebecca Mead, Molly (Candido) Hernandez, Andrew (Alicia) Timko, and Patty (Austin) Droit-each of whom brought him immense pride. His joy only grew with the arrival of his ten grandchildren: Alysha, Ashtyn, and Kaitlyn Griesemer; Ryan Mead; Isabella and Alex Hernandez; Jeremiah and Dominic Timko; and Ty Joseph and Morgan Droit. To them, he was simply "Grandpa Rich," a man whose love they felt deeply and without question.

Richard's faith guided every chapter of his life. He spent many years enriching the lives of young people as a teacher and guidance counselor at Collinsville High School and later at Southwestern Illinois College. Known for his strong work ethic, he was also a passionate volunteer. From his early days as a paperboy to his later years serving as a softball umpire, a marshal at Stonewolf Golf Course, an usher at the Fabulous Fox Theater and at St. Louis Rams games, and a dedicated member of organizations including the Knights of Columbus, Kiwanis, Key Club, Rotary, and the Unit 10 Federal Credit Union, among other activities, Richard poured his time and heart into his community. Through these roles he built lasting friendships and touched countless lives with his sincerity, kindness, and compassion. A lifelong sports enthusiast, Richard found joy in watching the St. Louis Cardinals, Blues hockey, and both college and NFL football. His enthusiasm was contagious, and his spirited commentary - often delivered from his favorite spot on the couch - turned even ordinary games into cherished family memories. He also nurtured a deep love of cars, with his most recent pride and joy being his Mustang.
To know Richard was to know his generosity. He quietly and consistently helped others - paying for meals of strangers, donating to friends' churches, easing the financial burdens of family members, or surprising offices with boxes of Krispy Kreme donuts. Somewhat recently, Richard bought a whole box of chocolate from the Holy Trinity Cub Scout and then joyfully handed out the treats to kids around him. His kindness was never about recognition; it was simply who he was.Richard leaves behind an irreplaceable void, but also a powerful example of what it means to live with love, faith, and selflessness. His family and friends will forever cherish the joy he brought into their lives and the countless ways he made the world brighter.

Visitation will be from 10am until 12pm on Friday December 5, 2025 at Holy Trinity Catholic Church 505 Fountains Parkway Fairview Heights, IL.

Funeral mass will be at 12pm at the church with Father Carl Schrage celebrant. Private burial will be held at Calvary Cemetery in Edwardsville, IL.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Fairview Heights Food Pantry or Knights of Columbus Council 6996