Carl Timmer

Carl, an outspoken and steadfast Harbor Master who built a life of adventure, family, and routine with his partner Sue, was a strong-willed man whose honesty softened into genuine sweetness once you truly knew him. He was a constant source of strength, even in the most difficult of times, and he was never afraid to speak his mind. More than anything, Carl loved spending time with his loved ones. His strong values guided him throughout his life. Deeply missed, Carl will be forever remembered and cherished.

The early 1940s are remembered as some of the most tumultuous years in history as WWII raged on. In the United States, many brave servicemen were called away from home while those who remained stateside faced strict rationing. It was during this tense time that Carl made his entrance into the world, bringing new happiness to his family. Born on August 27 of 1940, Carl was one of seven children and was raised alongside his siblings.

Growing up in Mansfield, Ohio, Carl was a typical young man of his generation in many ways. His strong personality began to shine at a young age, and even as a boy, he was known to always say what he was thinking. Carl loved fishing, boating, and spending time in the great outdoors. He worked alongside his father, Aloysius, learning to lay carpet. Carl attended local schools and graduated in 1958 from Mansfield Senior High School, eager to see what the future held in store.

Carl’s decisive and commanding nature lent itself well to leadership. Carl built a successful career in transportation management, beginning with several trucking companies in Ohio. In 1976, he relocated to Jacksonville, Florida, where he joined Ploof Trucking. Then he went on to dedicating 25 years of service to the Jacksonville Port Authority as Harbor Master, until he retired in 2007. Carl was in charge of bringing in the cargo ships, and he took his responsibilities very seriously. The job could be stressful and required Carl to make difficult decisions, but he took every challenge in stride and was very proud of his work.

Exciting changes were on the horizon for Carl as he met the woman who was his perfect match in every way. Her name was Sue, and the two were first introduced in Florida in 2004 at a Halloween happy hour. Carl was smitten and decided not to waste any time. The couple went on their first date just a couple of weeks after meeting, and the rest was history. Most recently, Carl really embraced the birth of his great-grandchildren.

In their early years together, Carl and Sue were an inseparable pair. They cherished their weekly walks on the beach, collecting shells and shark teeth along the way. Throughout their many years together, they shared a love of memorable cruises and the adventures each one brought. After settling in Kalamazoo, Michigan, they continued to embrace life side by side - visiting local wineries, taking trips to the Great Lakes, more cruises, and spending time at Sandy Pines with friends. They also enjoyed playing cards, especially Euchre, a weekly tradition they shared with friends and each other. Carl even took up golf later in life so they could play together, eventually joining a weekly league with friends. Carl approached every adventure with enthusiasm. Whether dressing the part or picking up the perfect gadgets, props, or quirky necessities, he embraced each moment wholeheartedly and with joy.

Never one to sit still for long, Carl had many hobbies to stay busy in his free time. He was an avid reader of Consumer’s Report, and everyone knew that if they wanted to buy something, Carl would research it first. He had an extensive knowledge of cars and especially loved older cars. Carl was a card game fanatic and played Euchre every week. He even had his own card shuffler that he tinkered to perfectly shuffle and deal cards. Carl could often be found manning the grill. He loved coffee almost as much as a bourbon and ginger-ale in a tall glass with a lime. He dressed up nice for every occasion. Carl enjoyed visiting casinos and playing the Michigan lottery online. He liked sticking to his routine and keeping everything running smoothly. Carl was often found on his iPad; reading, researching and exploring Amazon. Carl’s Amazon surprises were always thoughtful and useful, and he loved helping out whenever he could.

All who knew Carl will certainly agree that he truly made the most of every moment he was given. His solid work ethic allowed him to leave his mark on his career, and he was always willing to go above to help others. Carl showed his devotion to those special to him in countless ways. His insatiable zest for life could be felt by all those near. Although he is already so dearly missed, Carl leaves behind a priceless collection of memories that his loved ones will forever keep close to their hearts.

Carl Timmer of Kalamazoo, age 85, died on November 29, 2025. Carl was born August 27, 1940 in Mansfield, OH, to Aloysius and Rachel (Johnson) Timmer. Carl was preceded in death by his brothers, Leon “Sonny” Timmer, Michael Timmer; and his sister, Mary Margaret Timmer. Surviving are his children: Debbie Timmer and Rick (Christine) Timmer; grandsons: Cody (Alyssa) and Ryan (Lindsay) Timmer; and great-grandchildren: Joanie, Stevie, and Avery.

He is also survived by his life partner, Sue Parsons; Sue’s children: Stacy (Tom) Thinnes, Kelly (Steve) Hawkins; grandchildren, Michael (Jenny) Vallier, Kayla (Kyle) Roberts, Nik (Makenna) Vallier, Kali (Garrett) Patnoude, Trey Hanna, Emily Hawkins, Alyssa Hawkins, great-grandchildren, Colton, Maxen, Kaden, Breslin, Lawson, and Stetson; siblings: Joseph (Joyce) Timmer, James (Patty) Timmer and Ann Timmer Crose; along with many cherished family members and friends across Kalamazoo, Mansfield, and Jacksonville.

Please join us for a Life Story Service on Monday, December 22, at 11 AM at Betzler Life Story Funeral Homes, 6080 Stadium Drive, Kalamazoo (269) 375-2900. A reception will follow in the Life Story Center where food, drinks, and stories can be shared. Celebrate Carl's life online by sharing favorite stories and photos on his dedicated web page at BetzlerLifeStory.com. Memorial contributions in Carl’s name may be made to the Cleveland Clinic Foundation.