John A. Timm
February 2, 1949 ~ May 26, 2020
Resided in:
Bristol, CT
John Alfred Timm, born on February 2, 1949, in Meriden, Connecticut, passed away peacefully on May 26, 2020 from a heart attack, at home, in the company of neighbors and his beloved wife, Mary Beth. He was 71 years old.
John and Mary Beth were married on her birthday, August 21, 1971, in Bridgeport Connecticut. They then moved to Minot, N.D. where John served as a staff sergeant in the Air Force. Previous to his military experience, John graduated from Orville Platt Highschool in Meriden, and attended Central Connecticut State University, graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Physical Education.
John spent his career fusing his love for nature, sports, and community in various roles in local Parks and Recreations departments in Woodbury, Bristol, Torrington, and Hartford. During his time as the Superintendent of Parks in Torrington, he found his favorite restaurant, LaMonica’s. There, he enjoyed corned beef hash, and never hesitated to pour coffee for other patrons with his friends-turned-brothers, the LaMonica family. He often considered LaMonica’s to be his very own version of “Cheers,” where everyone knew his name, and he knew theirs.
The couple welcomed their first daughter, Natalie Alice, on September 6, 1980, and their second daughter, Marcianne Elisabeth, on March 1, 1984. The family of four lived in Terryville before moving to their Bristol home in 1989. John and Mary Beth continued to live at this residence, where John practiced–and mastered–the arts of landscaping, garden design, and skilled craftsmanship.
The family traveled throughout the U.S., often preferring to drive and camp along the Eastern coast. Their summers were spent outside; gardening in their yard, barbequing, and catching fireflies.
Their eldest daughter Natalie resides in Hartsdale, New York with her husband Peter, and their son – perhaps John’s most treasured gift and his beloved namesake–Seamus John Whelan. John and his “best buddy” Seamus had been inseparable since his birth on August 13, 2016. John was an active presence in Seamus’ life – a time John cherished deeply. The pair were often together fishing or taking a drive to their favorite bakeries after school. While Seamus is smaller in stature than his “Pop Pop”, as John preferred to be called; their love, friendship, care, and connection was palpable when in their presence.
His second daughter, Marcianne, resides in Brooklyn New York, where she utilizes the wealth of knowledge her father bestowed upon her, as a Project Manager in New York City’s construction field. She credits any and all of her know-how to her father’s practical, hands-on and real-life experience – a gift that he shared with Seamus as well. John’s “do-it-yourself” and “do-anything-for-people-in-need” attitude will surely continue on in the next generation.
His love for sports started early on, and included golf, fishing, and perhaps most notably softball. He wasn’t afraid to tell the others, “There isn’t a ball I can’t catch,” and proudly told his daughters, “You should see your old man out there.” John is credited as saying in the December 14, 1985 Register Citizen, “Yeah, when I was a young guy, in my prime…I probably won’t be playing too much now…” in reference to his record as one of the few batters in the city circuit able to clear the fences at John Toro I. John continued to play softball throughout his life and returned to the game he loved in the summer of 2019, joining the Jack Doyle Senior softball team. On many occasions, he could spot Seamus and Mary Beth in the stands, cheering him on. His limitless amount of care extended to every aspect of life, and perhaps every sport, often on the golf course, where lifelong friendships were made and cemented between each round.
The term “family” was never defined by blood, but rather by the amount of love one can show for another. Continuing the traditions of his father and great-aunts and uncles, John could be found sitting around the poker table with his brother Jesse, and cousins Renee, Bruce, David, Judy, and Daryl, amongst many others. Always fair, he was just enough of a jokester that he could make you laugh while throwing down the winning hand.
After his retirement, he joined the Core Plating Technology company where he continued to build relationships and worked alongside people he would quickly call family. He split his time in his later years between caring for Seamus and family, and working at “the Shop.” When not home with Mary Beth, or with Seamus, he could be found taking his mother Phyllis out to lunch on a weekly basis. The two toured Connecticut in search of their next great meal.
John was loved by all, and the list of people and communities he helped is truly immeasurable: from North Dakota to North Carolina, Florida, California, New York, and his home state of Connecticut. His family and friends are forever grateful to have had him as a loving, positive influence that will never be forgotten.
He is preceded by his father, Frederick and his sister Marion. He is survived by his mother Phyllis, siblings Charlotte (and her husband Joseph Begnal), Elaine, brother Jesse (and his wife Donna Timm), Frederick Jr., and Madeline. He is survived by his nieces and nephews Timm (and wife Wendy), Angelique (and husband Eric), Crystal, Karen, KC, Jesse, Erin (and husband Damian), Leila, Coniah (and Meghan), Joline (and husband Steve). He is also survived by his sister in law, Eileen Beaudry, her husband John (or J.B. as John called him), their daughter Mary and her husband Mark Jackson. He is survived by his many nieces, nephews, cousins, and other extended family members.
He is also survived by his wife of 49 years, Mary Beth, daughters Marcianne and Natalie (and his son-by-marriage, and bonded through love, Peter Whelan), his most beloved grandson Seamus, and so many others that constituted the Timm family.
For John there truly was never a friend that didn’t instantly become family. For so many, he was an informal father-figure. Many people called him Dad, a term of endearment that he valued, even if he didn’t particularly show it. The extent of his love for others is one that we may never truly see, but it is felt amongst those that have counted him as our friend and a pillar of our lives. The list of loving friends and family members is far too long to mention, and each held a special and unique place in his heart
John will be cremated, per his request. In lieu of flowers, his family asks that donations be made in his honor to the following local charities: The Boys and Girls Club of Bristol, https://www.bbgc.org/donate, or For Goodness Sake, https://www.forgoodnessake.org/financial-donations.
Due to current circumstances, the family will organize a memorial gathering when it is feasible in the future, and gives thanks to all who have showered them with love and support in this difficult time. Arrangements are in care of Beecher & Bennett-Flatow Funeral Home, 48 Cook Ave., Meriden.
So Sorry for your loss. John and I were friends for over 50 years and members of Platt class of 68.
I just met John last year when he joined our senior softball team in Wallingford. We loved having him there. He was a great guy with a great sense of humor. I could always tell in the little time I knew him that he was a wonderful husband, father and grandfather. He will be missed by all.
My sincerest condolences to John’s family and friends. I had the pleasure of working with John when he was starting out as a student teacher in Torrington and then as a member of the Torrington Parks and Recreation Commission when he was our superintendent. Always a professional and a gentleman! He made this world a better place by his presence and the world will surely miss him.
Love you all so much.
Very sorry to hear that John has passed. He was mentor to me as a young man during my years at the Bristol Boys Club. He was a genuine person. I want his family to have comfort knowing that he really did offer his guidance and fatherly touch to a young people like myself… i never forgot it! God bless
Hi Marvin,
It warmed our hearts to know he impacted your life in a positive way. He loved his work and time with the Boys and Girls Club, and we’ve decided to ask for donations to them in lieu of flowers. The work done there is so important for local communities, and we hope that his memory will live on with their continued dedication.
Sending love,
Marci
duane and Diana piccirillo
so sorry for the loss to the family very shocked to hear did get a chance to chat with him a while back. he was a dear friend a great person and a mentor to me. one time playing my guitar and singing and not sounding good; he was boing me and heckling me to stop I did.only to find out he wanted to play baseball another time he got skis for xmas wanted me to go to the meadows to watch him ski lol he didn’t no how and fell many time till he got a good run in. another time after school we went to his house I don’t no if mrs timm new.john went upstairs to change clothes and came down with a jame brown wig and danced to I got the feeling Freddie and I were in tears laughing ty for memories john duane piccirillo
My deepest sympathy to the Timm family on John’s passing. I had the honor of playing with ‘John Legend’ for several years on our softball team in Torrington, and knew him as a friend who would do anything to help anyone in need. I’m sure he’s now playing in the Major leagues with God. What a great human being he was on Earth. RIP.
Very sorry to hear about John’s passing.I met john at the Bristol Boys Club .We became friends as went there every day to work out.John was a good person and mentor at the club.We had many talks about my job as a police officer and his job at the club working with the youths.
Mr. Timm was a role model for so many, and even though I only spent a few dinners with him but witness his amazing parenting through his strong, intelligent and amazing daughter Marci. I was constantly impressed which her car knowledge or the confidence she had approaching any challenges. This was clearly due to a dad that raised his daughters right. His legacy will be carried on by his children and little Seamus. We should all hope to live a life as well as Mr. Timm.
So sorry to hear of John’s passing. From the Bristol Boy’s Club to the Parks and Rec Department, John was always a positive force. He was a true gentleman and will be missed.
So sorry to hear of Johns passing.When he was in Torrington we had many great conversations. I worked in the TFD and we talked about the city, about the Air Force as we were in about the same time both SSGt’s, as well as talking sports. With three sons playing baseball I was able to see John around the fields almost every day . He was a hard worker and always had a joke or story to tell. RIP friend, thank you for your service,and may the Lord take you in his arms.
My deepest condolences to John’s family. I had the privilege of working for John when I was in high school at Torrington Park and Recreation. He ran a tight ship, but was always a far and much respected boss. He will be missed by many.
My thoughts and prayers are with the entire Timm family 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻 He was a great guy and served the City Of Torrington well ! RIP John 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻
I grew up with John and was always impressed with his generosity of his willingness to share and hear with others. He was a true gentleman and a joy to be around. When he left his hometown I would see him on occasion when he would visit his family on Shore as I live two streets over.
I’ll miss not only as a longtime teammate on the many softball teams we both played for but more as a person of intelligence and a joyous outlook on life.
May God bless John til we meet again!
Joe Marinan
May John’s wonderful memory be a blessing to your family.
I never met John Timm and I know I am the poorer for it. The way his daughters and many friends speak about him makes me wish I knew him. I am so very sorry for your loss. Much peace and love to all his family and friends ❤️🙏🏻
I am so sorry for your loss.I spent many summers at your Nana’s on Shore Dr. The family was always so good to me.John was a great guy and always had a big smile for everyone.God Bless you all.God has an Amazing angel with him now.
John will surely be missed by alll who knew him. Timmsie was president of the Platt class of 1968 and was a true friend, and “Hombre” to a select few! Farewell my friend.
Jesse and Donna. Jim and I were so very sorry to read of your brother’s passing. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers. Please extend our condolences to your family, especially Phyllis.
I am so sorry for your loss. When ever I ran into John either at park and rec or playing with him on the VAC team he was always a first class guy with a big smile on his face. John RIP
Mary Beth and family
my deepest condolences to you ,John was courteous,kind,gentle and a friend to both of us.
he will truly be missed,
we loved him,
George Paradis
Joan D’Agostino
Mary Beth and the rest of JT’s family, i’m so very sorry for your loss. I had the pleasure of playing a lot of softball against JT along time ago. And later with JT at crown oil, JT was a great ballplayer, but more he was a great person. I had a lot of respect for JT . You should all be very proud of the man he was . He left us way to soon. We all be lucky if there were more people like JT around, he will be missed.
Like Ken, Marvin, & Tom I also met JT at the Bristol Boys and Girls Club. He was there during the formidable years for many of us and we all gravitated to him for his mentorship. He taught us to compete, to be fair, and not take it all so serious. Condolences to his family and many friends. On behalf of the Club’s board of directors thank you for letting us share in his memory.
Mrs. Timm, Natalie, and Marci,
I am so sorry to hear of Mr. Timm’s passing, he was a good, good, man! I saw him not too long ago, he was so proud to be Seamus’s Pop, he was absolutely beaming when he showed me pictures of him! And he was so proud of you girls too! It was a great honor to know him, I always admired how kind he was, im so very sorry for your loss, he will be terribly missed…
Love,
Jen (Chasse) Sanborn & family
So sorry to hear of John’s passing. I knew him from Torrington Rec. Never met a nicer fairer man than him. My condolences to his loved ones.
My Condolences to the Timm Family. John did many things for the City of Torrington that improved the quality of life for our residents while he was the Director of Parks and Recreation in our town.
My sincere condolences to the entire Timm family. I played baseball with John for a numbers of years while we were teenagers.
He was always smiling, energetic and a great personality! Although many years ago, I’ll never forget his engaging personality.
John was one of the truest friends I’ve ever known and one of the best. From High School and beyond. He was so great that he was elected as our high school President unanimously in Meriden CT.
Not to mention his skills on the field were unreal. I was upset that he did not win the Stoddard Bowl Trophy in 1967 when we won the league, but it was a close call. I guess I just liked him too much. Not to mention his entire family. He once said to me, if were up to me, I would have him run for President of the USA. I told him yep. I would.
As as aside, oOur football coach was able to help get John & I into NWCC where we were roommates. John drove me back & forth each weekend. I was his excuse to see his then girl friend now wife. I ended up getting drafted due to my own volition later to learn John joined the Air Force and played baseball all over the world. He was truly a GREAT athlete.
I recall going to John’s home with his brothers & sisters and his Dad watching over me. We were light years away from the past and also today.
Everyone should have the Timm’s family in our lives. I am proud to be able to have that honor and vow to carry on his legacy.
John was one of the truest friends I’ve ever known and thinking this through one of the best that I’ve ever had. From High School and beyond. He recently sent me a message to get together ….
John was so great for our times in the 60’s, that we elected him as our high school President, unanimously, for the class of Platt High School, in Meriden CT, in 1968.
When we won league, I thought he should have won the MVP for the Stoddard Bowl Trophy in 1967, I called the A.D. out on it.
l guess I just liked him too much, not to mention his entire family. He once said to me, if were up to me, I would have him run for President of the USA. I told him yep. I would. (It is on facebook) 🙂
As as aside, our then football coach was able to help get John & I into NWCC where we were roommates. John drove me back & forth each weekend. I was his excuse to see his then girl friend, and now wife.
I dropped out of college and ended up getting drafted into the Army. I later learned John joined the Air Force after College graduation and he played ball all over the world. He was truly a GREAT person in addition to his personal attributes.
To digress, I recall going to John’s home several times with his family when we were young and his Dad & Mom watching over me. They were always fun to be around.
Everyone should have a John Timm and the Timm’s family in our lives. They are very special people.
I am proud to be able to have the honor to have known them and vow to carry on his legacy, if I can help.
He called me Roomy from our younger days along with a few other names….
With Great respect, Rest peacefully, Roomy.
You are thought of with great pride & inspiration.
Miss you!
Bill
Mr Niland – what a beautiful tribute. I remember when I graduated high school with your son, we often joked “our dads were best friends and now we are!” Thank you for the very kind words and stories about dad.
My condolences to the Timm family. I was a Little League coach in Torrington from ’85 to ’98. I got to know John when he was with Park and Rec. He was a hard worker who made himself available whenever necessary. The fields were ready to go for the first pitch the years that he was in Torrington.