Timothy Andrew Lovely

Timothy Andrew Lovely, 70, of Lake Tapps, Washington, passed away peacefully at his home in Buckley, Washington, on June 30, 2026.

Born on January 27, 1956, in Tacoma, Washington, to Joseph and Margery (Strain) Lovely, Tim was the youngest of seven children. He attended St. Frances Cabrini Catholic School and Bellarmine Preparatory before graduating from Clover Park High School in Lakewood. He later attended the University of Portland before joining the family business, Tacoma Rubber Stamp, where he worked alongside his father, Joe, and brother, Jeff. The people he met, the places he experienced, and the lessons he learned during these years laid the foundation for a life defined by curiosity, generosity, adventure, and deep friendships.

Growing up, Tim and his siblings were introduced to a world of excitement. Whether spending summers on the shores of Lake Steilacoom, skiing at Crystal Mountain, or navigating Puget Sound and the San Juan Islands aboard their parents' Chris-Craft cabin cruiser, Tim embraced every adventure. He often reminisced about those early days in the San Juans, when the boat’s water tanks couldn't keep up with the needs of such a large family. His dad, Joe, would steer the bow of the boat beneath a waterfall and announce to his children that it was "shower time!” The mental image of that deck party cracks us up to this day.

While attending the University of Portland, Tim participated in a study abroad program in Salzburg, Austria, an experience that broadened his perspective and fueled his lifelong love of travel and adventure. By his own admission, the "study" portion occasionally took a back seat to the "abroad" portion. During these years he also formed a close-knit group of lifelong friends—Vinny, Vince, Dan, and Sam—friendships that endured for decades and became some of his most treasured relationships.

Tim met the love of his life, Karen, during a sales call to the office where she worked. Their first meeting was memorable in true Tim fashion. Karen happened to be on the phone with a friend (working hard!), discussing a man she wasn't interested in dating. Hoping to discourage him, she jokingly told her friend “Oh, just tell him I’m a lesbian.” Never one to miss an opportunity for humor, Tim began stopping by the office asking, "How's my favorite lesbian?" That playful persistence marked the beginning of a love story that would span more than four decades. Tim and Karen were married in 1982 and built a beautiful life together on Lake Tapps, where their home became a gathering place filled with laughter, friendship, and unforgettable memories.

In 1989, they welcomed their daughter, Kaylin Marie, into the world. From the moment he held her, Tim was completely devoted. He eagerly introduced her to everything he loved—water skiing, snow skiing, boating, and the outdoors—encouraging her to approach life with confidence, courage, and a willingness to try anything. As soon as she could stand, she was on a pair of skis with Dad proudly cheering her on. Nothing brought Tim greater joy than seeing his daughter happy.

That same generosity of spirit extended far beyond his family. Tim had a remarkable gift for making people feel welcome. He celebrated others' successes, stood beside them through life's hardships, and never missed an opportunity to gather friends together. Whether it was a round of golf, an afternoon on the boat, or dinner at his home, Tim loved bringing people together. He built friendships across every chapter of his life—from the Tacoma business community to neighbors and lifelong friends at the lake—and he valued each one deeply.

To know Tim was to know someone whose enthusiasm for life was contagious. He lived with a fearless sense of adventure, an unmistakable sense of humor, and a generous heart. Simply put, Tim was one of a kind. Ask anyone who knew him.

Tim is survived by his beloved wife of 44 years, Karen; his daughter, Kaylin; and his cherished grandson, Huxley. He is also survived by his sisters, Kathleen Lovely-Sanders and Mary Lovely-Quanci, along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and countless dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Margery Lovely, and his siblings Lynda, Dennis, Jeff, and Margery.

A Celebration of Life will be held in Tim's honor on Sunday, August 30, 2026, from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. at the Tacoma Yacht Club 5401 Yacht Club Road Tacoma, WA 98407.

Beer, wine, soft drinks, and hors d'oeuvres will be served. Anyone who knew Tim is warmly invited to attend. Please help us spread the word as we gather to celebrate a man who meant the world to so many and whose laughter, kindness, and adventurous spirit will forever remain in our hearts.

Fair winds and following seas, Tim. You will be deeply missed and forever loved.