Timothy Alan Zarske (October 6th 1965 – September 2nd 2014)
Tim wasn’t a man of many words. But despite what little he said, he would make an impact through all he did. He was true to himself and how he felt about any situation. He loved his family very much. Tim was a simple man. He didn’t need many things in life to keep him happy or satisfied. Among those few things, he was passionate about his vehicles, keeping them very clean, back-road fun, his music and his amazing wife of 23 years, Tammie. Every once in a while, on a weekend, Tim would enjoy cleaning their vehicle, make a playlist, then go on a day long drive with his wife and kids, enjoying the freedom and exploring this beautiful state, all the back roads in the mountains – the hidden treasures life offers. Tim was such a great man with incredible qualities. There was no better role model for his children growing up.
On October 6th, 1965, Tim was born to Judith and David Zarske. They moved to Helena, where eventually he followed in his father’s footsteps in a long, successful career in law enforcement. Tim was Tammie’s hero. He made her life the best it could be, saving her from some hard times and two years later, married her, and adopted her two children Amber and Aaron. He was the only dad they knew. Two years later, their son Ryan was born. Tim was a selfless, honest man. Everyone was so proud to be a part of his life.
In Tim’s life there was a need for speed. Whether it be RZR rides with his wife, long day trips in the hills on the four wheeler, his new Dodge Charger, or NASCAR races, he had fun and lived his life to the fullest.
Tim passed unexpectedly from a health related tragedy. However, his memory will live on much longer. He is preceded in death by his father David and mother, Judith.
He is survived by his wife Tammie and their children Amber, Aaron, and Ryan;, also by his siblings Scott (Julie) Zarske, Dawn (Ross) Hannawalt, Brian (Izzy) Zarske; by his grandchildren Trevin, Adilynn, Liam and another on the way; also including numerous nieces and nephews and his wonderful dogs, Buster, Gizmo, Oliver and Boxcar.
The family of Tim Zarske would like to thank East Valley Fire Department, St. Peter’s Hospital, Lewis and Clark Sheriff’s Office, and Anderson Stevenson & Wilke Funeral Home along with countless others.
Visitation will be held from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. with the family receiving friends from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. Sunday, September 7, 2014 at ASW Funeral Home, 3750 N. Montana Ave. A funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m. at the Lewis and Clark County Fair Grounds. Graveside services will follow the funeral service at Sunset Memorial Gardens in Helena. A pot-luck reception will take place at the East Valley Fire Department, 2694 Valley Dr., East Helena following the graveside services.; main courses will be provided, side dishes and desserts are encouraged. Donations can be made to The Zarske Family Benefit at any Valley Bank Location in Helena.
Service Schedule
Visitation
12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Sunday September 7, 2014
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave.
Helena, Montana 59602
Family Receiving Friends
2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Sunday September 7, 2014
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
Funeral Service
1:00 p.m.
Monday September 8, 2014
Lewis and Clark County Fair Grounds
Helena, Montana 59602
Graveside Service
Following the Funeral Service
Monday September 8, 2014
Sunset Memorial Gardens
Helena, Montana 59602
Reception
Following the Graveside Service
Monday September 8, 2014
East Valley Fire Department
2694 Valley Dr
East Helena, Montana 59635
Service Schedule
Visitation
12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Sunday September 7, 2014
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave.
Helena, Montana 59602
Family Receiving Friends
2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Sunday September 7, 2014
Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
3750 N. Montana Ave
Helena, Montana 59602
Funeral Service
1:00 p.m.
Monday September 8, 2014
Lewis and Clark County Fair Grounds
Helena, Montana 59602
Graveside Service
Following the Funeral Service
Monday September 8, 2014
Sunset Memorial Gardens
Helena, Montana 59602
Reception
Following the Graveside Service
Monday September 8, 2014
East Valley Fire Department
2694 Valley Dr
East Helena, Montana 59635
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Rick Broadwater says
To his wonderful wife Tammy and the family, brothers and sister. I haven’t the words to convey my sadness when I heard the news of the sudden loss of Tim. To you all, my deepest sympathy and heartfelt loss for you. Tim was a lifelong friend and like others in the L.E. family, he grew up with us and eventually worked with us. He was a very caring, loving talented and intelligent person, friend and colleague. He was a joy to be around and we shared so many interests. I’ll miss his sense of humor, laugh and my Rzr riding buddy.
Fran Monro says
Tammy: I am very sorry for your loss my prayers are with you and your family. I wish your family peace and comfort.
Kelly & Dulcy Hubbert says
Tammy, we were shocked and saddened when he got the news of Tim’s passing. He was a wonderful man and will be truly missed by so so many. You and your family will be in our hearts, thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Tina Linn says
To Tammy,Dawn,Scott,Brian, I’m so sorry for your loss Tim, was a wonderful person. I have known Zarke family for years and Tim will be truly missed. My thoughts and prayers will be with all of you.
Myrna Paulsen says
Tammy, I am so sorry to hear about you and your family’s loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this time. May you find some peace and comfort in all the friends and co-workers that you and Tim have to hold onto during this difficult time.
Kelly Brown says
Tammie and the Zarske family,
I can’t express how sad it was to hear this. He was so incredibly blessed to have such a loving, supportive and devoted wife and family. Please know my thoughts an prayers are with you.
Dave Anderson says
Scott, Dawn and Brian and your families; I am so saddened to see this .. altho I didn’t know Tammy, you have my deepest sympathy also. I knew Dave, Judy and all the kids since the late 70’s. A great family to whom my most sincere sympathy is extended.
May Peace be with you..
dave anderson, the old 5-51
deb stansberry crum says
Tammy and family,
I did not know Tim, but my sons, Jason and Justin Crum thought very highly of Tim. I am so very sorry for your loss. May God be with you at this time and always.
Peace be with you……………….
Deb
Susan Gleich says
Tammy, There are no words to convey how saddened I am or that will make a difference in this time of suffering. Please reach out to me if I can do anything to help. Please call me at 459-6993. Sue.
Karen Warner says
My deepest sympathy to all of Tim’s family. I have some great memories of working alongside Tim dispatching and away from work too. RIP Tim…
Apryl Hiatt says
Tammy & Family- we are sending thoughts and prayers your way in this time. Praying for peace and wisdom in this time of loss. I know that several past “Warren School” families are thinking of all of you. There are no words to express how sorry we are for your loss.
With deepest sympathy, Apryl & Terry Hiatt, and family
Patty Lesofski says
Dear Tammy and family,
So very sorry Tammy, words can not express the sadness of the loss of a husband and to the children a father. We are praying for strength and comfort for your family.
With our tenderest thoughts, love and prayers, Ben and Patty Lesofski & family
Jim McGrane says
I extend my deepest sympathy to the Zarske family. Although I did not have the opportunity to work with Tim I had the pleasure of working with the Zarske children as they attended Helena Schools. There is no better testimonial regarding the character of an individual then the kindness, respect, and sincerity displayed by his/her children. My thoughts and prayers are with Tammy and family. May the memories of those many enjoyable times comfort you during these difficult days.
Jim McGrane
Marilyn Jacobs says
Having worked with Sgt. Zarske when I was a dispatcher, I was saddened to hear of his sudden passing. He was a good cop, but an even better man.
May God be with his family, his law enforcement family and his friends today, and in the difficult days ahead.
Tim Heinle says
Tammy, our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. I am very sorry for your loss.
Kathy Kroll says
Tammy, I cannot express how sorry I am for your loss. I had the privilege to work with Tim for the last ten years, he was definitely one of the highlights of the job. He had such a wonderful sense of humor, and I will miss him very much.
Kathy
Sharon Little says
Tammy, I was very fond of Tim and thought he was a good man. His integrity and service to our community were outstanding. My sincere condolences to you and yours.
Mike and Mary Root & Family says
Tammie and the Zarske family and friends we are sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. I’m sure you have so many wonderful memories that you will cherish forever. And know that the Guardian Angels will keep him safe until you meet again.
Mike and Mary Root
Tammy Potter says
Tammie, our thoughts and prayers are with you and your faimly. Tim was such a wonderful man. He spoke highly of you and your family often, and Ray and I both have so much respect for Tim. He will be missed so much. We are so sorry for your loss.
Cindy Paradis says
Tammy, So sorry to hear. Tim was a wonderful man and I feel honored to have worked with him and to know him. Please know that you will see him again and it will be so wonderful! Cindy
Mike and Colleen McCarthy says
Tammy,
We were saddened and shocked to hear of Tim’s passing. LCSO has lost a strong leader and friend. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. May you find some comfort in knowing how much Tim was loved and respected by so many. Peace be with you.
Bob & Sara Clark says
Tammy, kids, Scott, Dawn, Brian and everyone in the Lewis and Clark Sheriff’s Office,
The community was a safer and better place because of Tim and his passion. Our prayer is that everyone finds comfort in the memories of Tim’s “dash” and the footprints he left in our hearts.
Tim – Godspeed favored servant ~ Your tasks complete in God’s eyes. Thank you for everything you did.
Barbara (Haskin) Sheridan says
Tammy, My heart aches for you and all. Tim always has a special place in my heart. Many nights of double deck UNO, and ear washing in between emergency calls, after work midnight road trips to Anaconda, Butte, and back to Helena because he wanted to share his joy (show off) of his new (old) car. I know how happy he was when he met you, true love you know. He was always proud of all of his family and would talk about missing his mother. He helped me in so many ways after my husband passing, mostly just by being a true dear friend. Thank you Tammy for being the Love in my friends life.
Susie and Ken Edick says
Oh Tammie, we are so sorry and sad for you and the kids. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you at this difficult time. Know we are here for you should you need anything at all. Tim will be so missed by so many.
Neil & Denise Brunett says
Tammy,Dawn,Scott,Brian,
We are sorry to hear about TIm. We have known him for so long and always enjoyed visiting with him. I spent alot of time with him when I was on the road and he was always someone I could count on. He was a top notch guy and he will be missed.
Scott Swingley says
Hard to believe we spoke only last Friday. Tim, you made the world a better place. The Lord has a special place for men like you; now you wear a gold crown in heaven. We will miss you beyond measure. I fondly remember the days at Capital High School having lunch together in that big ugly van you drove to school! We took similar career paths and I had the fortune of working with you, going to calls, backing each other up. I have your back here, as do many others. I truly thank God for the privilege of having known you. To your family I say I will help anywhere I can. I wish I had the perfect words to aid and comfort you now. May God Bless the Zarske family and many friends of this great man. Scott Swingley
AN-G says
ONE OF MY FAVORITE MEMORIES OF MY UNCLE IS WHEN ME AND MY HUSBAND WERE GETTING READY TO GO ON OUR HONEYMOON AND I GOT A RARE MOMENT WITH UNCLE TIM AT GRANDMAS HOUSE WHEN IT WASNT A HOLIDAY. UNCLE TIM STARTED TELLING ME ABOUT THE WATERFALLS IN OREGON AND HOW BEAUTIFUL THEY WERE. YOU COULD CLEARLY TELL HE HAD A LOVE FOR THEM. HE INSISTED WE TRY TO TAKE THAT ROUTE AND SEE ALL THE BEAUTIFUL THINGS ALONG THE WAY. WE DID. IM VERY GLAD WE DID TOO. IT WAS PROBABLY THE ONLY SERIOUS CONVERSATION WE EVER HAD SINCE HE WAS VERY MUCH A JOKESTER! IN FACT, THE VERY LAST PHOTO I HAVE OF HIM IS HIS ARM WAVING IN FRONT OF MY CAMERA TO MESS UP THE PICTURE I WAS TAKING 🙂 I WILL MISS THAT HUMOR AT EVERY FAMILY HOLIDAY.
Denny and Melanie Davis says
Tammy and family,
We are very sorry for your loss. Tim was first a great person and a fine law enforcement officer. I always felt a great satisfaction knowing there were people like him out there serving the citizens of Lewis and Clark County. He will be missed. Take comfort in the love he had for his family, and that he worked at something he loved doing. He is smiling down on you.
Chris Weiss says
Tammy,
Words can’t express the grief I feel losing Tim. Tim became a good friend to me, personally and professionally. I always looked up to Tim and I believe he was a great person and leader. There was never a dull moment being around Tim and he tought me many things. I always looked forward to teaching PVOC with him. He loved cars and loved driving even more. Tammy, I will always remember how fond he spoke of you. You were/are Tim’s best friend. Tim always smiled when he talked about you and spending time with you in your Razor, cruising on the roads and in the mountains. Tim will be forever missed and remembered.
Carla Tevis says
Tammie and Zarske family,
I am so shocked and stunned by the loss of this wonderful man. I first met Tim in 1986 when we dispatched together, I was PD and he was SO. There had always been some division between the two agencies but you never would have known that with Tim. We worked 2 shifts together and they were my favorite days, I so looked forward to those shifts. Tim hooked me on Hank Williams jr. and entertained me thruout the shift as well as helping me learn what was important information for a dispatcher. I love Tim as much as a family member and remember the humor that was always sparkling in his eyes. I was there when he met the girl of his dreams and I was so happy for both of you, it is rare to find a marriage where to people are still so much in love after 20 plus years. I will miss him but I know I will see him again. Love and prayers to all of you
James Todd says
Tammy, Brian, Scott, Dawn,
I am so very sorry to hear about Tim. Growing up in law enforcement, he was one of my true friends, and I looked up to him. His sense of humor was everlasting and always what was needed at the time. He was one of the few who not only loved to do his job, but also deeply cared about those he set out to help. His values, morals, and compassion for others will be greatly missed in this world, and by those who knew him. Rest in peace Tim, until we all meet again…
James
Pete Hartman says
I am so sorry to hear about Tim’s passing. He was such a great guy to be around with and a true professional towards Law Enforcement. He will be greatly missed by all.
Deziah Gilliam says
I had the joy of meeting Tim through the LCSO . He was a great man and could ALWAYS make you laugh. I am so sorry for your loss, words can not heal the loss nor make the pain go away. Please know he will be an angel flying next to you no matter where you are…
Michelle Van Nice says
Tammy and family – so very sorry for your loss. I so enjoyed being around Tim at work as he always showed who he was – a true and honest person – kind, caring and respectable to all. Hold tight to all your memories and know that one day you will be reunited. Keeping you and your family in my deepest thoughts and prayers.
Sam & Larry Heigh says
Tammy and family -Words cannot express how sad we are for your loss. Tim will be greatly missed by us and many others. Know that we are thinking of you and you are in our prayers.
Shane Hildenstab says
When I first started at the Sheriff’s Office, I was nervous and always worried about what I could say or ask. Tim was always a person I could ask or say anything to and he would always make me feel like I was okay in asking it. Tim was an inspiration, a role model, and one of the finest men I have had the privilege to have met. He always had a kind heart and was never afraid to show his love of his family. I will miss his love of life, and the fun conversations we had. I also had the privilege of teaching Tim’s youngest son in DARE, and being around Tammy. It is obvious to see the influence Tim had on Ryan, he too is a great individual and a fine young man. My heart will forever hold a place for Tim, my one time office mate. Tim, rest in peace my friend.
Brent and Cindi Colbert says
I have no words that could express the sadness of the loss of Tim. The world is a lesser place without him. I know Tim is with God and even heaven is improved by his presence there. I know you to are sure of this and yet this knowledge cannot diminish this loss or our grief. We will always have thoughts and our memories and in this Tim will never be forgotten. Tim was not only one of the best people work with but he was one of my best friends. Rest in Peace Tim.
Jay and Cate Nelson says
Tammy and family,
Our deepest sympathy goes out to you and your family. It was only last week that my wife, youngest daughter and I were talking to Tim at Steffano’s where we would always seem to run into each other. I met Tim as a young kid riding along with my Dad and always had fond memories of us talking about nothing or working side by side. It is times like these that we look above and say why? But it is also these times that we bow our heads and say we don’t need to know why and merely trust in your plan for us all and say thank you for the opportunity to know and work with a great guy. May God bless…
John D. McKittrick says
Tammy & Family,
I regret I am unable to be there for Tim’s service & could not stand by his side because of previous commitments. Tim was a humble man who I had the prividlige to serve with & I am proud to have been his friend. My thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time.
Diane L Krier says
Tammy,
With sadness and regret my condolences to you and your entire family.
Diane & Angela Krier
Pat Hurley says
Tim was always a shining light at the office. He would always come through when asked to help out with the department’s vehicles or anything else he was called on to do. The LCSO, the Reserves and the public will miss Tim and all his great attributes. I always enjoyed working shifts with Tim and his great humor. He will be sorely missed. Tammy, our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.
Pat & Jeannie Hurley
Tina Arvish says
I’ve been at a loss for words and that doesn’t happen very often. Tammie, Amber, Aaron & Ryan…I am so sorry for your loss. What an amazing man! Growing up with the Zarske family was a true honor and blessing. Always humor in the house. My thoughts and prayers go to you all.
Jason Quijada says
Tammi Aaron and family I’m sorry for your loss.
I only met Tim a couple times in passing. He seemed like a great man, I am sending prayers and
thoughts to you all in this difficult time. Just remember you all have many people at your side. May God watch over you all. If you see me in town stop and I will listen I’m here for you.
Myrlin Schatz says
Tammy
I am sorry for the loss of your best friend and husband. My family and I are Thinking of you and wish there were words to take away the pain or bring Tim back. You can call if there is anything I can do.
Peter T. Rehmann says
Tammy & family,
I have know Tim since he was a jailer to Deputy and am very proud of our LE relationship. The Lord works in strange ways. I had not seen Tim for a long time, then we meet up at Cap Comm, working on our units. It’s “Hey Tim”, “Hey Pete”, how’s everything going. just like the old days. He always had that smile/jokester style, which likened things at the office. Your family and our community has lost a very sincere, kind and gentle soul. i am so sorry for your loss.
Pete, HPD-#755-Retired
Maureen Fisher says
Everyone was always greeted with the widest, sweetest smile no matter what the situation. Tim was one in a million and God must have really needed him at this special time. It is not for us to question, only hold dear the memories that we all share of Tim. Until we meet again may God Bless and keep you. Thank you for your service to all of our communities, you will be missed beyond belief!
Tammie our thoughts and prayers, are with you and the children. Cherish your memories and best times. Bless All of Tim’s family Scott, Brian, Dawn and families.
With Deepest Sympathy and Prayers,
Warm Hugs,
Maureen “Enie” Fisher and family
Tina and Tony Tillo says
Tammie and Family, We are so terribly sorry for Tim’s passing. What a shock so very sad. Your family will be in our prayers during this difficult time.
Lois Steber Simpson says
Tammie, Ken and family,
I am so sorry to hear about Tim. I only met him a couple of times but you could tell that he was just a very nice man. My condolences and prayers to you and your families for you great loss.
Barbara Amundson says
Tammie, I’m so sorry for your loss. It breaks my heart for you and your family. I never got to know him when we worked at Child Care Partnerships but he was so supportive for you. You and your family are in my prayers.
Jarrod O'Leary says
Zarske Family:
I was so saddened to hear about Tim. I admit it has been many years since I have seen Tim. However, I have many fond and fun memories of Tim back in the high school days. Not only the times in the Law Enforcement Explorers, but Tim was part of our group running around having fun around Helena. Even back then he loved his cars and had his steadfast likes (as well as dislikes) for specific car makes. I remember his nice black Dodge we would take out periodically all the while scrounging for a few bucks to keep gas in the thing. Those were the fun times with memories to hold on to forever.
My sympathy and prayers for the whole family, including his wife and children whom I did not have the pleasure to meet. May God provide you the comfort you need during these challenging times.
Kadyn zarske says
Tim is my uncle I’m sad passed away in 2014 he brings too much memories but I still miss you will still be up with meand my family