Dirt
TRIBUTE
like I was like him, one of the best. I remember my first time walking
onto the track in front of tens of thousands of spectators at the NHRA
Finals in Pomona in 2013. I felt so small, so alone and so out of my
element – until I saw Tim. He was always so welcoming and kind
when most others were not. For some, the photo wall can be a very
competitive place, but not for Tim. He was always the first to share
his knowledge, a laugh or the great capture which eluded everyone but
him. Tim loved to shock and embarrass. He also loved the horsepower,
the cars, and the excitement, but mostly he loved the people. There are
many photographers who knew Tim better than I did, but none that
loved him more. Tim was one in a million. He was unfiltered, genuine,
passionate, kind and unapologetic. Tim was special, and his loss is huge.
Tim’s family was his chosen family – his family of racers, photogra-
phers and friends. He had two beloved dogs, Shadow and Chica. Tim’s
girlfriend, Jamie Shores, was the true light in his life. Jamie and Tim
first met many years ago when she was only 12 years old. Jamie’s dad
raced the “Shores & Hess” Anglia and later the “Fireball” Vega and
Monza Funny Cars. Tim was his photographer. Jamie still has the photo
of Tim in his Army uniform which he sent to her while stationed in
Germany in the late ‘60s. On the back of the print Tim wrote “I will
always love you,” and he did. The couple rekindled their romance at
the March Meet in Bakersfield four years ago and could often be seen
photographing races together. I was fortunate to see them together at the
Hot Rod Reunion last October and I can honestly say I have never seen
Tim happier. I know I am not alone in saying that it warms my heart
knowing Tim’s final years with Jamie seemed to be his happiest ever.
The March Meet is where Jamie and Tim rekindled their romance
in 2014, and this year it will be where they say their goodbyes. A cel-
ebration of Tim’s life will be held at Famoso Raceway with Chaplain
Matt Miller officiating and Joe Walla dedicating a music tribute to the
beloved photographer.
Appropriately, the celebration will be held on “The Wall” at the start-
ing line where Tim worked his magic for 53 amazing years, right after
the last car makes its run down the historic track on Saturday night.
What a touching tribute it will be to a photographic Icon of our sport.
Have no doubt Tim will be hovering from above with Nikon in hand
and that sly, mischievous grin we are all going to miss so much. “The
Wall” will never be the same. - DYAN LOVER
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