Timothy Charles Gurney

Tim departed too soon, but we hold close our cherished memories of him. We remember his strong individuality and gregarious demeanor. He connected easily with friends and strangers, old and young alike—he could talk to just about anyone and regale them with a story, a joke, or a spontaneous impersonation of a memorable film character. He was blessed with both natural athletic ability and artistic talent that led him to excel at almost anything he tried, often testing the limits. From his earliest days, Tim was on the move, whether sliding down banisters or zooming his tricycle down stairs. As a teenager, he built a half pipe ramp at the end of the driveway so he could catch air on his skateboard or BMX bike. On Saturday mornings the driveway was often transformed into “gasoline alley,” where Tim, his Dad, and his brother, Steve, tinkered on their cars, including his first, a ’68 Cutlass Supreme. Sundays found him with his father out on the Potomac in their Old Town canoe, fishing for bass. He picked up the fly casting technique so quickly that even John was impressed. He also enjoyed a range of art techniques, especially silkscreen and spray paint, and adorned walls and furniture with his creations. He revelled in the process of creating costumes and personifying characters for Halloween. His incredible ear for music and beautiful singing voice landed Tim a spot in B-CC High School’s prestigious Madrigals choir. He later formed bands with friends and often could be found strumming on his electric guitar and singing his own lyrics. Tim had a soft spot for all animals, especially his cats, to whom he was devoted. Several years ago Tim settled in Colorado, which was his kind of place, with its wide open spaces, friendly folks and beautiful mountains. New adventures included mountain biking with other amputees. He learned to rebuild knee scooters and prosthetics, and continued to help friends with car repairs. Tim leaves behind his cherished daughter, Kalea; her mom, Mari; his mother, Yvonne; and his siblings, Jennifer and Stephen. He was predeceased by his father, John. We imagine Tim and his Dad have joined the choirs of the angels, together belting out the carols they so loved to sing at Christmas Eve Mass. Tim would have wanted nothing more than for all of us to keep singing and smiling, too, and to keep pursuing that which brings us joy. A memorial Mass will be held at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Washington, DC, on Saturday, June 11th at 10:30 a.m. All are welcome at Yvonne’s home in Kensington following Mass.