In Loving Memory of Jeff Timm June 26, 1947 – October 18, 2025
Jeff Timm was born on June 26, 1947, in Wilmington, Delaware, to Walter E. Timm and Mary Ellen Ballard. From an early age, Jeff displayed determination, warmth, and a wry sense of humor. At twelve, he once said that "success" meant being able to buy an expensive $50,000 home—a reflection of both his ambition and his down-to-earth outlook on life.
On May 25, 2002, Jeff married Penny Granetzke, joining their lives with love, companionship, and shared respect for family. Though distance meant they didn't see one another's families often, Jeff cherished the connections their marriage brought. He was the proud father of Douglas Timm and Kevin Timm, and the devoted stepfather of Brian Granetzke and Craig Granetzke.
His joy multiplied with his grandchildren—Nolan, Natalie, and Norah, the children of Douglas. Jeff also delighted in being part of Penny's extended family, embracing Brian (Jen) and Craig (Laura) and their children: Hannah, Isabella, and Veronica, and Jordan, Julianna, and Aston. He took special pride in Nolan's entrepreneurial drive and in Natalie and Norah's success as competitive athletes. His grandchildren's accomplishments and humor brought him endless pride, laughter, and joy.
Jeff is also survived by his beloved sister, Deborah Miller, and her husband, Jerrold Miller. He will also be missed by his nieces and nephew: Ryun Miller (Antoinette), Myra Miller and Ella Miller (Kaleb).
Career and Accomplishments
Jeff built a distinguished career managing adhesive businesses for Avery Dennison and Johnson Polymer, and held supervisory positions at DuPont. His professional achievements were matched by a lifelong commitment to advocacy and inclusion.
Together with Kevin's mother, Jeff initiated and developed the Delaware Parents of Downs organization, a pioneering support network for families raising children with Down syndrome. He later served as President of Disability Rights Wisconsin and was active in the Delaware ARC, continuing his dedication to advancing opportunity and awareness for individuals with disabilities.
After retiring, Jeff found joy in one of his favorite roles—working as an usher for the Milwaukee Brewers for 14 years. The position combined two of his great loves: baseball and connecting with people.
Family and Personal Passions
Among Jeff's proudest family moments were his sons' achievements. Kevin, born in 1974 with Down syndrome, built a rich, independent, and fulfilling life. Jeff took tremendous pride in Kevin's career at Bank of America and in his choice to live with friends in a group home—a testament to his strength, determination, and kindness.
Doug made Jeff equally proud through his accomplishments in both education and athletics. As a talented soccer goalie, Doug led his college team to a championship, a highlight of his athletic career that Jeff loved to cheer from the sidelines.
Music was another lifelong passion. Jeff loved any Beach Boys hit and "Eight Miles High" by The Byrds. He delighted in collecting rock and roll CDs, attending a myriad of concerts with "Rock 'n Roll Kevin", and reliving his favorite songs from the golden age of rock.
A Life Well Loved
Those who knew Jeff will remember his sharp wit and easy laugh—especially when watching Seth Meyers, Saturday Night Live, or listening to his grandchildren's hilarious observations.
Jeff and Penny shared a love of travel, culture, and the arts. Together, they explored Europe and Asia, hiking national parks across our beautiful country, attended concerts, plays, and performances, and often escaped to Florida during Wisconsin's frigid winters—relishing warm sunshine, good food, and time spent simply enjoying each other's company.
Above all, Jeff cherished his wife Penny, their family, and the time they spent together watching Major League Baseball and Marquette basketball. Jeff took particular pride in his manicured yard and could always be seen weeding or edging the beds but mostly chatting with passers-by.
Jeff wished to be remembered as a loving husband, father, and grandfather—a man who worked hard, laughed often, and loved deeply. His legacy lives on in the family he adored and in the communities he strengthened through his leadership, compassion, and advocacy.
With Gratitude
The family wishes to extend heartfelt thanks to the compassionate team at Hospice Alliance—especially Nurse Cindy, Chaplain Joshua, CNA Taisha and Meghan—for their kindness and care during Jeff's final days.
A special acknowledgment goes to Jeff's lifelong friend Roger Brown, his BFF since the playpen, whose friendship remained a constant source of joy. Deep appreciation and love is also extended to his walking buddies, Jerry Hershberger and Fred Cross, who faithfully kept their routine of 30 minutes of walking and 90 minutes of coffee or lunch for many years, and to his usher buddies, especially Rick Sandvig, who shared countless good times and laughter while working together in the bleachers of American Family Field.
Memorial Contributions
For those who wish to honor Jeff's memory, donations may be made to: • Hales Corners Lutheran Church Checks may be sent to: Hales Corners Lutheran Church Attn: Business Office 12300 W. Janesville Rd. Hales Corners, WI 53130 • Special Olympics — support.specialolympics.org/a/delaware