Tim Wilson Shackelton

Tim Wilson Shackelton, age 71, passed away the morning of Sunday, October 22nd peacefully after giving his loving family the opportunity to say goodbye.
Tim was born on January 16, 1952, in Walton, NY to Walter and Wilda. During his early years, it was discovered that Tim had "perfect pitch", the ability to recognize musical notes with absolute precision. After graduating from Walton High School, he attended Hartwick College where he earned his Bachelor's Degree. Tim then began his music teaching career at Cobleskill-Richmondville School District where he taught for over 30 years. During his teaching career, his music aptitude continued to flourish into becoming a published composer with the pinnacle of his achievements being the performance of his "Wilderness" work by the Chicago Symphony Orchestra.
Tim was a true renaissance man, with his abilities not limited to just the musical arts. He was an expert outdoorsman, including being a championship marksman, an avid and accomplished hunter, and firearm enthusiast. Like with his music, Tim was a mentor for many looking to learn more about hunting, firearms, and all things outdoors.
Above all, however, Tim was a family man. He married the love of his life, Susan, in 1975 at the Church of the Good Shepherd in Canajoharie, NY. Their first child, Bryan, was born in 1982 followed by their daughter, Elizabeth Gilbert, in 1985. Tim then welcomed his grandson, Walter, in 2016 as well as five additional step-grandchildren, all of whom he passed his love of music and outdoors to.
Tim was predeceased by his father Walter, mother Wilda, and brother George. He is survived by his brother, John (Cheryl), his wife Sue, his son Bryan (Jen), his daughter Elizabeth (Scott), six grandchildren, and countless students and loved ones.
Tim was the rock to his spouse, the hero to his son, and the knight to his daughter. He will be forever missed by all who had the pleasure and privilege of knowing him.
Private services will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions in Tim's memory may be made to The Joshua Project of Schoharie County, Inc., PO Box 413, Middleburgh, NY 12122-0413, or St. Jude Children's Research, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Mereness-Putnam Funeral Home, 171 Elm St., Cobleskill, NY.