Tim Shears

(From Derfelt Funeral Home)

Howard Timothy “Tim” Shears, age 67 passed away Saturday, August 7, 2021 in Joplin, Missouri.

Tim was born January 13, 1954 in Joplin. His parents were Bob and Barbara (Gray) Shears. He had lived in Joplin the past 5 years after living most of his life in Galena, KS.

Tim graduated from Galena High School with the class of 1972. He worked as a diesel mechanic at Yellow Freight, Baxter Springs, KS for 20 years. He then began working at Riverton KS school system in the maintenance department and as a bus driver. He retired from there in 2017 after 22 years of service. Tim loved his bus riders. They were special to him.

Tim was married to Kathy Doreen Robinson on June 25, 1976 in Baxter springs, KS. She survives.

Additional survivors include one daughter, Shannon Leigh Thomas (Brandon), Joplin; one sister, Susan Ezell (Don), Galena; three grandsons, Colton Thomas, Tristan Shears, and Grady Thomas; his close cousin, Julie Farris-Kaetz, Joplin; along with many nieces, nephews and other special family members whom he dearly treasured.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one son, T. J. Shears, and one grandson, Tyler Rainey.

Tim was a member of Tennessee Prairie Church in Galena, KS. Tim was very close to God and eager to say the family prayer before Sunday dinners. He fervently prayed for his dear friends and family that he loved so much.

“Timmy the Tool Man” was an amazingly talented handy man. His grandsons knew and quoted this fact: “If Papa can’t fix it, no one can.” Tim was also kindly referred to as “heavy duty” for the overabundance of screws, nails, and hardware he would use on his projects.

Tim and Kathy enjoyed visiting local flea markets and antique malls. They would bring home their treasures and restore them into beautiful masterpieces. He also enjoyed his weekly luncheon with school friends at Sweet Creek in Galena. There was nothing Tim liked more than watching his Grandsons play sports. He looked forward to every single game.
Tim was entrusted to Derfelt Funeral Home, Galena, KS for cremation.

In lieu of flowers it is the desire of the family for donations to be made to the Galena Museum in honor of Pappy Litch.

A graveside memorial service will be held on Thursday, August 19, 2021 at 2:00 PM at Oak Hill Cemetery, Galena, KS. Pastor Dave Robinson will officiate.

Phillipians 4:4-8