Tim McConnell passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, December 1, 2024. He is survived by his children, Bill and Miranda; daughter-in-law, Caroline; twin granddaughters, Jasmine and Ramona; and his beloved miniature golden doodle, Ginger.
Tim was born at a U.S. Air Force base in Tachikawa, Japan. Growing up in a family that moved frequently, he developed a broad and diverse perspective on life. He attended North Eugene High School in Oregon, where he excelled in basketball and other sports. Tim continued his athletic career by playing college basketball at Creighton University in Omaha, Nebraska, before finishing up professionally in France.
After his basketball career, Tim devoted his life to education, serving as a special education teacher, assistant principal, and HR director for the Park City School District. He earned a doctorate in education from the University of Utah, and his family lovingly referred to him as “Dr. Tim,” despite his lack of medical training.
Tim’s true talent was his ability to connect with others. His warm personality and quick wit made him a friend to everyone, from teammates and colleagues to neighbors and grocery clerks. He loved spending time with friends, sharing stories and drinks, no matter how much time had passed since their last meeting.
Tim’s passions were simple yet meaningful. He cherished a strong cup of Folgers coffee, long drives with The Beatles, and reading books like The Lord of the Rings, Shakespeare, and Dune. He took pride in barbecuing tri-tip after mowing the lawn and enjoyed walks with Ginger, the dog he once swore he didn’t want. But most of all, he treasured his family.
Tim shared a special bond with each member of his family. He cheered on his daughter Miranda as she played volleyball for the MSUB Yellowjackets, exchanging Wordle streaks and stories along the way. He and his son Bill had many conversations about movies, politics, and music, often reduced to playful teasing and quoting films. Tim had a close relationship with his daughter-in-law, Caroline, offering help with home projects and sharing family memories. His twin granddaughters, Jasmine and Ramona, adored their “Papa Tim Jungle Gym,” falling asleep on his chest or sharing a chicken bake at Costco.
Tim’s greatest love was his wife, Bambi. From the moment they met at the Wendover Peppermill Hotel and Casino to their marriage on October 5, 1991, until her passing on April 4, 2023, she was his world. Together, they enjoyed camping trips, boating adventures, surprise concerts, and nightly dinners. Their holiday traditions—decorating, delivering holiday bread, and writing Christmas letters—created lasting memories for their family.
Tim’s towering 6’7″ frame was matched only by the vast space he held in the hearts of those who knew him. After Bambi’s passing, Tim adopted the mantra, “I won’t choose misery,” a reflection of his resilience. Though we mourn his loss, we honor his memory by embracing life with the same joyful spirit: sharing stories, raising a glass, and cherishing those around us.
“In sorrow we must go, but not in despair. Behold! We are not bound for ever to the circles of the world, and beyond them is more than memory.” – J.R.R. Tolkien
A Celebration of Life will be held on Tuesday, December 17, 2024, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at Devonshire Funeral Home.