Honoring a Life Well-Lived

Born November 8, 1948, and called home to be with Jesus on November 23, 2025, Timothy Durkin, Sr. filled his life with love, passion, and creativity. He grew up in Salem, Oregon, traveled with the U.S. Army, and—after adventures as a young man—returned to raise his family in Oregon. Year after year, he found his way to the shores of Depoe Bay. He loved the drive, whether by car or motorcycle, and he treasured wandering through small shops in search of gifts and trinkets to surprise the people he loved.

Known to many as Tim, Senior, or Pop, he was a loyal Oregon Ducks fan who never missed a game. It was that very love of the Ducks that brought him to Eugene, Oregon — passing through town, he and his son and daughter stopped to catch a game and never left. From there he met the love of his life, Lorna. Together they celebrated each season with pride, always decked out in green and yellow. He loved gardening and showing off his harvest, often incorporating it into the meals he cooked. He also loved caring for animals—most famously contributing (along with the whole family) to the creation of some very well-fed Chihuahuas.

Tim’s creativity knew no bounds. He built a remarkable artistic portfolio across pencil, ink, acrylics, and watercolors, many of them inspired by nature or created as heartfelt gifts. He cultivated skills in delicate eggshell art, fragile gourd work, and wood projects—whittling, carving, and painting characters familiar to those around him.

A self-taught guitarist, he shared music and many other adventures with his beloved grandchildren. Few things brought him more joy than playing and spending time with them. He loved to learn and found interest in everything: geocaching, drones, boats, sailing, HAM radio, and even firearm safety, which he proudly taught to others. He wanted to understand the world, and he always shared his curiosity with others.

A proud Vietnam-era veteran, a devoted husband to Lorna, and a father and grandfather beyond measure, he embraced every day fully. He created beauty in every day of his life, joy throughout his family, and brought happiness wherever he went.

He is survived by his beloved wife Lorna; his son Timothy Durkin II; his daughter Tanya; his stepchildren Andrew, Lisa, Roseanna, Matthew, Jacob, Naomi, and Elizabeth; over 40 grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and many dear friends, including his closest lifelong friends, Mary, MaryAnne, Danny, and George, who will all forever carry his spirit.

Military honors will be held June 12, 2026, at 1pm at Vancouver Barracks National Cemetery in Vancouver, Washington.