Russell Tims

Russell Lee Tims had the ability to light up a room with his joy for life, easy going demeanor, and sparkle in his eyes. He passed away on June 1st after a 2 year battle with brain cancer.
Born in Ironton, Missouri in 1946 to Raymond and Virginia Tims. Russell grew up with his older brothers Bill and Bob in St. Louis. He graduated from the University of Missouri before moving to the Bay Area to live the California dream. Upon settling in Stinson Beach, he sang in a band, was a member of the volunteer fire department, managed a bar, and developed his love for construction. He built many lifelong friendships while there.
He moved to Santa Fe in the late 70's to further pursue his building career. He met his late wife, Nancy Brown, while on the dance floor. They were married for 23 years. Russell started his own construction company and built spec homes, eventually building his own dream house, while Nancy pursued her career as a renowned jeweler and artist. They had a son Travis, in 1984 who was the light of their lives. He had a complicated relationship with golf, filled with a deep love for the game and lots of colorful language. He was a devoted husband and father; nowhere was this more evident than in his care for Nancy in her battle with cancer.
Yet again, on the dance floor, he met his loving partner Jill. Together they shared their love of family, friends, food, and travel. Russell was at his happiest when surrounded by family, especially when with his daughter-in-law Katie and granddaughter Charlotte. His love for Charlotte was a driving force in fighting off cancer. More than anything, Russell cherished being surrounded by his family and Jill's children and grandchildren, who he loved as his own.
He is preceded in death by his wife Nancy Brown and his brother Bill Tims. He is survived by his son Travis Tims, Travis' wife Katie, their daughter Charlotte, his brother Bob Tims and Bob's wife Orinda, as well as Russell's partner Jill Markstein and her children Autumn Burns, Elena Thrower and husband Rob, Kyle Burns and wife Tabitha as well as Jill's grandchildren Taylor, Jaxson, James, and Johnnie who will always be blessed to have had Russell in their lives.
In lieu of flowers please make donations to the Nancy Brown Memorial Fund at the Santa Fe Community Foundation.
There will be a memorial for Russell on Saturday, June 25th at 4pm at the Museum of International Folk Art. Friends who wish to join are welcome.

The Family of Russell Lee Tims has entrusted the care of their beloved one to Avista Cremation & Burial "where healing begins."

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