Timothy R. Bird

On the most perfect day of 1965, February 26th, a beautiful baby boy named Timothy Robert was born. From that first moment, he defied expectations. Born with an extra chromosome, Tim shattered barriers and inspired all who knew him until his passing on May 10, 2024. Known for his indomitable spirit and love for his community, Tim’s life was a testament to courage and acceptance. Over the course of the next 59 years, this man, surrounded by so many loving family members and friends, would go on to do the impossible. They said he wouldn’t walk, then we watched him run in the International Special Olympic Games. They said he wouldn’t learn, but he went on to teach and inspire. They said he couldn’t become part of the community, but he created his own, complete with a beautiful culture of diversity and acceptance.

Born into a farming family, Tim was an expert calf-feeder, hay bale thrower, and chicken wrangler. He had many canine companions over his lifetime, and was so patient and gentle with all animals. He fiercely loved his siblings, playing any game that allowed him to be the “good guy” and wear a cowboy hat. His loud, slightly off-key renditions of his favorite country western tunes and church hymns were the soundtrack of our lives. He attended Glenwood City and Boyceville Schools, before graduating in 1986 and becoming a full-time farm hand with his family. When retirement from farming left Tim with time on his hands, his community school, particularly Joan Klassen, utilized Tim’s many talents as a teaching assistant in the elementary classrooms, where his new title became “Mr. Tim”. He did this for many years, while also guest speaking in many other districts around the state in an effort to spread the very simple message: we are all more alike than different.

Tim was a world traveler, exploring many different states and countries. He loved plane and car rides to anywhere. The destination didn’t matter as long as his travel mates were family! Donning his cowboy hat and walkie talkie, Tim was the self-appointed security at the annual family reunion, where he lived his best life in the presence of so many close family members. Tim was devoted to his church family and the Lord. He was an acolyte, usher, and faithful congregant right up until the Lord called him Home. He was baptized and confirmed at Peace Lutheran Church in Menomonie, and later an active member of Trinity Lutheran Church of Boyceville.

Despite the Alzheimer’s that overtook his body, Tim’s spirit remained unyielding. His memory lives on through those who mourn his loss, including his parents, Robert and Lynda Bird of Boyceville, his siblings Tammy (Mike) Bloom of Boyceville, Steve (Jolene) Bird of Boyceville, Kevin (Wendy) Bird of Boyceville, and Amy (Greg) Reed of Oshkosh. Additionally, Tim adored his eleven nieces and nephews, Molly (Isaac) Tyroler, Trenton (Renae) Bloom, Alex (Cynthia) Bloom, Joanna Bird, Kayla (Travis) Sampson, Abbey Bird, Megan (Logan) Bird McAbee-Thomas, Hayley Bird, Amelia Reed, Maxwell Timothy Reed, and Elliot Reed. His great nieces and nephews, cousins, aunts and uncles, and all the friends he made in his hometown, Special Olympics, Joyful Noise, Thrillseekers, and the many places he traveled made up his incredible world. We also recognize his lifelong friends Darlene Booth and Brian Frieburg, and Vivian and Larry Hanestad.

Those who have gone before and helped lead Tim Home include grandparents Fred and Anna Bird, and George and Maxine Anacker, as well as aunts and uncles, and special friend Karen Boettcher.

The family wishes to thank all who were part of the “village” surrounding this very special man. We are especially grateful to the very loving staff of Safe Haven Group Home and St. Croix County Hospice for the compassionate care in his final year, the staff of Boyceville and Black Creek Schools for welcoming him as an educator, Special Olympics coaches and volunteers for so many incredible experiences, and Dr. Mark Deyo-Svendsen for the gift of his unwavering medical support in every step of Tim’s life.

A visitation took place on Tuesday, May 14th from 4:00-7:00 p.m. at Olson Funeral Home in Menomonie, and we also take place one hour prior to the service at the church on Wednesday. Funeral services will be held at Trinity Lutheran Church in Boyceville at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, May 15, 2024 with Pastor Brad Peterson officiating. Burial will be at Tiffiany Cemetery in Boyceville, WI at a later date.

In Tim’s honor, any donations will be designated to local programming which enrich the lives of people with disabilities.

To share a memory, please visit obituaries at www.olsonfuneral.com