In Memory

Timothy James Hahn - Class Of 1956

Timothy James Hahn

April 7, 2024, Timothy J. Hahn, 85, of Paris, Illinois passed away peacefully at his home with his family by his side.

Tim, the second of four children, was born June 16,1938, to Enoch F. and Clara L. (Mosser) Hahn. Tim lived his rambunctious young life in Olney, Illinois with his three siblings Angela, Beverly, and Rick, along with many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends nearby.

Tim attended St. Joseph grade school and it was here he learned and grew in his Catholic faith. He also discovered what would be the beginning of many lifelong friendships. Although being rather quiet in nature, the nuns at the school could likely attest to his mischievous side. We believe the term “watch out for the quiet ones” may have originated here. Following grade school, Tim attended Richland County High School. During his high school years Tim valued time with his “best friends” and created numerous memories which spun into fun stories which were joyfully retold for decades, never possessing hints of exaggeration, I’m sure. Tim loved spending time out on the local lake, becoming a skilled water skier, mastering his signature, barefoot skiing on one foot.

From a young age, Tim learned to work hard. Selling produce from his mother’s garden, flipping burgers at the pharmacy, and working at the local movie theater, all of which allowed Tim to purchase his first car while in high school, a 1941 Model A. After some time, it seemed to Tim and friends a good idea to saw off the top of the car to create a convertible. Later that day it seemed an even better idea to ensue in a spontaneous car race competition among the locals through the countryside, resulting in his newly renovated car flipping over and sending them all flying into the field and ditch, fortunately only receiving minor injuries.

Tim thankfully survived his high school antics and went on to attend Vincennes University for two years, and Eastern Illinois University for two years, graduating with a bachelor’s degree in Business with a minor in English. Tim was also proud to serve as an active member of the Army reserves. Following graduation, Tim pursued a job in nearby Paris, and taught middle school English for four years. It was during this time that he met and married his lovely wife, Linda. They would soon grow their family to include two sons, David and Stephen, and twin daughters Jane-Ann and Julia. After teaching for several years, Tim discovered a promising career with the Department of Transportation, working as a land negotiator with various road and development projects. True to his tireless work ethic, in addition to working for the state, Tim acquired an appraising business, which kept him very busy in the years to come.

Tim’s hobbies included love of the outdoors, especially time spent in his garden. The result of such producing a nightly dinner plate of absolute artistry. He spent countless hours poring over cookbooks, reveling his time in the kitchen to test various recipes. Tim enjoyed music and dancing. A favorite of many was watching Tim and Linda capture the dance floor at weddings and festive events. On weekends, Tim enjoyed donning his favorite Notre Dame sweatshirt while rooting for his favorite team.

Tim will be remembered for his ability to enjoy the simple pleasures of life, his witty humor, embracing the circadian schedule; early to bed, early to rise, his generous and hardworking spirit, and his love and provision for his family. Those in his house will forever remember the lighted firefly ember of his Salems on a darkened summer night out on the patio, following a long day of work, likely riding his favorite Cub Cadet tractor.

Tim/Dad/Granddad/Pop, is survived by his wife Linda, his children Stephen Hahn of Champaign, Jane-Ann Mattingly and her husband Tim of Fishers, and Julia Gonzalez and her husband Michael (or “Gonz” as Tim fondly called him) of Fishers; his grandchildren, Lucas Hahn, Anna, Kate, Meredith, Joseph, and Clara Mattingly, and Evan, Luke, Isabel, and Claire Gonzalez, and great-granddaughter, Irelyn McGinnis.

Tim was preceded in death by his parents Enoch and Clara Hahn; his brother Rick Hahn, his sister Beverly Bowers, and his eldest son, David Hahn.

A special thank you to the many kind and compassionate caregivers during his stay at Methodist Hospital. They were wonderful. Our deepest gratitude extends to the Hospice staff and especially to his caregivers that ensured that his final days were spent at his favorite place, his home.

In lieu of flowers, we believe that Tim would encourage those who are able, to plant a garden, specifically tomatoes. And think of him while enjoying a freshly picked sun-ripened tomato on a hot summer evening.

Visitation was from 9:00 a.m. until 10:30 a.m. Saturday, April 13, 2024, in the gathering space of St. Mary’s Catholic Church of Paris. Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at 11:00 a.m. by the Reverend Father Aloysius Okey Ndeanaefo and Deacon Bruce Scott. Music was provided by Jerri Ricketts, organist, and the St. Aloysius Choir. Burial followed in St. Aloysius Cemetery. Casket bearers were Evan, Luke, and Michael Gonzalez, Tim Mattingly, John Smith, and Robert Weisgerber. Templeton Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Templeton Funeral Homes, Paris, IL