Tim D. Teelin
Tim D. Teelin , Age 74
Tim Douglas Teelin, 74, of beautiful Baraboo, peacefully passed away on August 27, 2023 with his wife, Amy, by his side. He had experienced an extended period of lung disease and, in September 2022, received a life-extending bi-lateral lung transplant.
Tim was born on March 9, 1949, in Madison, WI to Erma and Willard "Pete" Teelin, and enjoyed hobbies such as playing in Skull Canyon with friends as a child. As he aged, he grew to love flying kites from the backseat of a convertible, playing volleyball, working out, and lifting weights. He graduated from Baraboo High School in 1967 and went on to double major in history and economics at UW-Madison before completing a Master's Degree of Management of International Business at Thunderbird Graduate School in Phoenix, AZ. Tim loved to travel and explore the world; he lived in Pittsburgh, Chicago, and San Francisco, and frequently traveled to his prior Trans Ocean office in Sydney, Australia. Later in life, Tim became interested in playing polo, collecting military miniature figures, and connecting with the local community through leadership and volunteerism. He served as a member of Kiwanis and as President on the boards of The Friends of the Al. Ringling Theatre and The Friends of the UW-Platteville Baraboo/Sauk Co. Campus. He most recently served his community as a Sauk County Supervisor and was proud to be the "old sage" for the League of Extraordinary Gentlemen at the Baraboo Boys and Girls Club.
Over frozen custard in 2000, Tim asked Amy's children, Andi and Jason, if he could marry their mom, to which they exclaimed, "What took you so long?!" Tim and Amy Teelin (Torseth) were married that Fall. Joining the family of a busy dance teacher and two pre-teens was a far cry from Tim's bachelor life, which was filled with independence, lake living, and a fridge of only film, take-out containers, and insulin for his diabetic cat. Despite his relative inexperience, he grew to fiercely love his roles as husband and father. He wrote heartfelt cards in his beautiful handwriting, vacationed with friends, played (and mostly lost) table games, kept regular lunch dates at Java Cafe with Amy, and spent countless nights in the screened porch overlooking the same prairie he'd loved since childhood. Tim enjoyed good-naturedly embarrassing his children through the years, whether that was by walking through the kitchen with underwear on his head, cracking jokes about pink squirrels, or making flatulent sounds with a straw stuck in his armpit. He had a great sense of humor and a contagious laugh which will be greatly missed.
Tim was a kaleidoscope of curiosities and contradictions. He listened to hours of Soundscapes before watching obscure animated TV series, habitually left three pieces of cereal in the bowl he was eating regardless of how much he would pour, and somehow managed to balance his logic and pragmatism with a deep-rooted spirituality. His hard-headedness was matched in intensity only by his love for chocolate chip cookies and, despite his tough exterior, Tim was an absolute marshmallow for his grandchildren (Robert "Bo" and Laura "Sisi" Grabarczyk), animals, and underdogs.
In memorandum, donations can be made to the Friends of the Campus, the Baraboo Boys and Girls Club, the American Lung Association, or the charity of your choice. A gathering of friends has been set for Saturday, September 16, 2023 at 10:00 am at The First Presbyterian Church in Baraboo, WI with a celebration of life to being at 11:00am.
He is survived by his loving wife Amy Torseth Teelin, stepchildren Andi (Tony Grabarczyk) and Jason Krunnfusz, grandchildren Robert and Laura Grabarczyk, sisters Lynda Teelin and Tracie (Ray) Mandli, sister-in-law Una Teelin, and many dear family and friends. Tim was preceded in death by his parents, Erma (Gettman) and Willard "Pete" Teelin, brother Terry Teelin, and brother-in-law Ron Barganz.
Note: It is with the utmost respect and profound gratitude that Tim's family recognizes the B4/5 Transplant/ICU teams and support staff at UW-Madison Hospital, where "Slick Timmy" spent the past 11 months. Their kindness and generosity, fierce determination, and compassion are unmatched. Tim and Amy could not have asked for a better team of professionals and friends to always "have his six."
Condolences
Greg Lang September 02, 2023
Friend Reedsburg , Wisconsin
So sorry for your loss. Tim was a great guy and will be missed by his hometown.
Linda Schenck September 02, 2023
Acquaintance Baraboo , Wisconsin
So very sorry for your loss…he was a wonderful man and a gentleman’s Gentleman. May he rest in peace.
Teresa E Pleger September 02, 2023
Friend Eau Claire , Wisconsin
A friend just shared Tim's obituary on my FB page and I am shocked and saddened. I recall having dinner at his house and looking at his vast collection of some kind of, I believe, war memorabilia. He was such a genuinely nice person and he and Amy always lit up a room. I have so many fond memories of our time in Baraboo and he played a large part in those golden years. Love and hugs to Amy and his family.
Musa Ayar September 02, 2023
Friend cumming , Georgia
l am sorry for your loss. He was one of the gems of Baraboo! His contributions to the community will be cherished for years to come.
Kathy Skrivseth September 02, 2023
Acquaintance Baraboo , Wisconsin
So very sorry for your loss. Please know we are thinking of you ðŸ™
Kim Bockenhauer September 02, 2023
Dance mom Baraboo , Wisconsin
So very sorry for your loss. Tim fought the good fight with you by his side, throughout his journey. Please know you and the kids are in my prayers.
Jody and Grace September 02, 2023
UW Hospital Guest Services Madison , Wisconsin
We are so sad to learn of Tim's passing. It was our pleasure to meet and assist Amy during her daily visits. She is inspiring. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you all.
Lynn Kargel September 03, 2023
Friend Baraboo , Wisconsin
Amy, I am so very sorry to hear about Tim's passing. He was always so friendly at the ticket booth where I'd see him once a year. I can't imagine your pain and I will pray for comfort and peace for you and your family.
Christin Harding September 03, 2023
Friend Baraboo , Wisconsin
I'm so sorry for your loss-the entire community will miss his humor, infectious smile, and generosity.
Greg DeSanto September 03, 2023
Friend Sauk City , Wisconsin
So very sorry to hear of Tim’s passing. May his memories be of enduring comfort to you and your family.
Terry Spencer September 02, 2023
Friend Baraboo , Wisconsin
Amy and family, Jackie and I send our sincerest condolences to you all. Tim was a super person and I’ve known Tim for a long time and have sought out his knowledge many times in the past. Please take comfort in knowing Tim is home and will be watching from above. Bless you all. Terry and Jackie Spencer
Deanna Horjus-Lang September 03, 2023
friend Baraboo
Amy and family, I am so sorry to hear of Tim's passing. I wish you lots of strength in the coming days. Lots of love to you all.
Anne Horjus September 03, 2023
friend Baraboo , Wisconsin
I am so very sorry dear Amy and family to find out about Tim's passing. My sincere condolences. I wish you lots and lots of strength, love, and comfort these coming days.
Dan Balluff September 03, 2023
Family Boise , Idaho
We are very sorry for your loss. He seemed to be a very special person.
Amanda Lang September 03, 2023
Friend Black River Falls , Wisconsin
He will be so missed. I loved coming back after high school and helping with recitals and getting to work with Tim manning tables or setting things up. He always had me laughing and was so kind. So sorry for a huge loss.
Patricia Riesch September 03, 2023
Friend Colorado Springs , Colorado
Amy and family I am So sorry to hear of Tim's passing. What a great man he was. My prayers are with you Amy and your whole family Patti and Brad Riesch
Lynn Gunnell September 03, 2023
Friend of family Baraboo , Wisconsin
I am so incredibly sad to hear this news. My deepest condolences. I will keep your beautiful family in my prayers.
Amber Deitrich September 03, 2023
Acquaintance Baraboo , Wisconsin
My most sincere & deepest condolences to the Teelin family & especially Amy. How I’ve missed & recently talked about our days interacting on almost a daily at Vintage Port. Might not remember me but I definitely remember you! Great man & what a power couple you & Amy made. May you find comfort in God’s hands and He provide solace to your family.
Debbie Black September 03, 2023
Friend Evergreen , Colorado
Tim will always be remembered as a fantastic person - smart, fun and genuine. It is just heartbreaking he is no longer with us.
Gorde Ranum September 03, 2023
Coffee Group friend madison , Wisconsin
I was from BHS class of “66â€. Over years when the chance for a catch-up chat came up Tim reflected his affable nature like a true BHS gentleman, a handshake offering dignity and steady eye sincerity. Spending the past few years with Tim in a weekly coffee group with its motley crew was a real treat. I certainly will miss his unique perspective, wit, character and colorful commentary. RIP Good Buddy. -Gorde
Hans Fangel September 03, 2023
Brother 6840 Oksboel, Denmark
Dear Tim. You’ll be greately missed.
Erin Wagner September 03, 2023
Dance mom Appleton , Wisconsin
Kayla and I just heard the news. We are so very sorry for your loss. He always had a smile on his face and was so kind every time I saw him. Hugs to you Amy and the rest of the family.
Mo Reilly and Brad Schnee September 03, 2023
Friends Loveland , Colorado
We send our deep condolences on your loss. Tim was a true friend, to us and to all of Baraboo.
Susan Topham September 03, 2023
Friend Madison , Wisconsin
What a wonderful tribute
Paige Baird September 03, 2023
Friend Summerville , South Carolina
Amy, I am so sorry for your loss. I vividly remember your courtship with Tim, while we were working together at Golden Apple, and the protective love Tim had for you during dance recitals. Tim was such a wonderful man with a great smile, and he will be missed in the Baraboo community. All my love.
Pat Nash September 03, 2023
former employee of Teel Plastics Duluth , Minnesota
So sorry for this great family's loss and for all who loved him.
Sue Torseth Balluff September 04, 2023
Family Boise , Idaho
My family and I are so sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you â¤ï¸
Sheila Byberg September 04, 2023
Friend Murfreesboro , Tennessee
Dear Amy, Bill and I were stunned to hear this sad news. Always looked forward to you and Tim visiting at my store. What a great couple you made! He will be missed by many! Please know you are in our thoughts. My you find comfort in the memories and peace to you my friend!
Annette Cottrill September 03, 2023
Longtime friend West Bend , Wisconsin
My deepest sympathy to you and your family. The world was a better place with Tim in it.
Nijole Etzwiler September 03, 2023
Friend Baraboo , Wisconsin
So sorry to hear this. May your memories and his love support you in the coming years.
Sheila Byberg September 04, 2023
Friend Murfreesboro , Tennessee
Dear Amy, Bill and I were stunned to hear this sad news. Always looked forward to you and Tim visiting at my store. What a great couple you made! He will be missed by many! Please know you are in our thoughts. My you find comfort in the memories and peace to you my friend!
Nancy Thome September 05, 2023
Friend Baraboo , Wisconsin
Amy, I’m so sorry to hear about Tim. He will be deeply missed. I’m holding you close in my heart.
Kristin Yahnke September 05, 2023
Family Friend Indianapolis , Indiana
Tim and my father, David Yahnke, were great friends among the modeling/historical world. Prayers for peace during this difficult time.
Rod Curtis September 05, 2023
Long time hobby friend Springfield , Tennessee
Amy, My deepest condolences to you and family. Tim was good friend of 25+ years in the miniature hobby. He was very kind to me and supportive of my work through the years. I enjoyed the times we had and he will be missed.
Les Pennington September 05, 2023
Friend Wisconsin Dells , Wisconsin
Dear Amy, Please accept my most sincere condolences at Tim's passing. I have enjoyed our friendship over the years. Tim (and of course you) have always been a joy to share and talk with. Tim was such an optimistic guy I always felt better after seeing him and listening to his stories. I am so sorry for your loss. Please pass on my condolences to the family. Sincerely, Les
MaryJane Camu September 05, 2023
Friend Baraboo , Wisconsin
Thoughts and prayers to you, Miss Amy and family. Our sincerest condolences. <3
Susan Blodgett ADRC September 05, 2023
Work at Sauk County Baraboo , Wisconsin
I am so sorry for your loss. Tim was such a kind man to all. He will be missed by this community.
Corissa (Chopp) Lotta September 05, 2023
friend Verona , Wisconsin
I was stunned and saddened to see this on FB. I have such fond memories of Tim as he was learning to play polo with my dad (Jack Chopp) and me (I was giving him riding lessons). We had so much fun around the horses – AND the parties. Always a charming smile and a mischievous twinkle in the eye. May you all find peace in your memories and love.
Sverre September 05, 2023
TBird friend Forres/Oslo
We spent 3 great semester at Thunderbird in the ‘70s. And he came to see me in Norway some 30 years ago. My sons remember his as an exciting and caring ‘uncle’. I have nothing but good memories of Tim.
Roger Hanko September 06, 2023
Friend Las Vegas , Nevada
My thoughts are with you Amy. Back when I owned Amber Moon I loved when you and Tim would come in the shop. Tim and I would razz each other the moment the door opened. Loved when the three of us would go golfing. I always lost but would tell people he cheated. And he in his dry humor would always say, Ya Right! I always loved his laugh. When showing his military miniature collection he would stand by like a guardsman at a castle. He made me chuckle. Love to you and your family.
Jay Neary September 06, 2023
Coworker Brookfield , Wisconsin
I had the pleasure of working with Tim while at SVA and Tim even served as my mentor. With every interaction Tim brought energy and a unique perspective. He was a positive presence and I am grateful for the time I had to interact with Tim 1:1. Thank you, Tim, for those memories and for making a positive impact on those around you. My sincerest sympathies to the family.
Shelley Mordini September 13, 2023
Friend Baraboo , Wisconsin
Amy and family. Very sorry to hear of Tim's passing. He will be missed.
Ronald Nicosia September 14, 2023
Friend Germantown , Maryland
Dear Amy, Andi, and Jason, I'm so sorry for your loss. Tim was my best friend that I loved as a brother. I will forever cherish the 50 years of laughter and good times together. He will be truly missed.
Tom and Carol Kratochwill September 16, 2023
Friends Merrimac , Wisconsin
Dear Amy and Family, Our sincere condolences to you all with the passing of Tim. Wishing you all the comfort of friends and loved ones in the future. Tim was a fantastic person and we have great memories of being with him over the years.
Jim Dumesic September 18, 2023
Polo friend Verona , Wisconsin
Tim and I learned to ride when we were introduced to polo. I never had more fun in my life!! We traveled around Wisconsin, Iowa and Minnesota on polo road trips. Tim was the heart and soul of our team!!!
Stephanie Seefeldt September 20, 2023
Friend Oconomowoc , Wisconsin
Amy - What a tremendous loss. I loved spending time with Tim at the Boo-U fundraiser and other events over the years. He was always encouraging and kind. I loved seeing the two of you together, and after reading the obituary, I know more of the blessing of your beautiful relationship. May the Lord bring you so much comfort and peace - and even joy - in the days ahead, Amy. I remember you with so much love -Steph
Amy Sergeant October 17, 2023
Friend MIDDLETON , Wisconsin
I am so sorry to hear of Tim's passing. I was a client of his at SVA and considered him a friend as well. I always looked forward to our talks and we always had some laughs as well. He was such a kind man and I will miss him. My condolences to the family for the loss of a truly wonderful man!