Santee, CA
Tim passed away at age 91 and is survived by his wife, Shirley Ann Wilsterman; son James Wilsterman (Rei) of Spring Valley, CA; son Michael Wilsterman (Jodie) of Spring Valley, CA; and son Thomas Wilsterman (Vickie) of Bixby, OK.
He was preceded in death by his father William Joseph Wilsterman and his mother Marie Helen Wilsterman; and his brothers William, Charles, Howard, Richard and Donald; and his sister Alice Huff.
He is also survived by 8 grandchildren, 6 great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.
Tim was born in Barberton, Ohio, the youngest of 7 children. After graduating from Barberton High School, he joined the Navy and spent most of his 4 years in the boat pool off Japan. When he returned to San Diego, he met his future wife at Cathedral CYO.
Shortly after leaving the Navy, Tim was hired at General Dynamics where he worked as a plaster pattern maker for 40+ years. He married Shirley Deters in April 1956 and when the family expanded with 3 young boys, they moved to Santee in August 1960.
Two years later, when Guardian Angels Catholic Church was established, Tim quickly became involved with the parish. He helped with the church building, and volunteered as teacher and co-principal for the high school religious education program (CCD) for 2 to 3 years.
Tim was actively involved with his sons as they were growing up. He served as pack leader in Cub Scouts and as a scout leader with the Boy Scouts for several years. His leadership and wisdom guided and influenced many young minds.
When the Knights of Columbus council was established at Guardian Angels Parish, Tim continued his active membership, transferring from the La Mesa KofC council. Every year he was involved in the parish Fall Festival until Covid shut down large gatherings. Tim loved the desert and camping, rock-hounding and jewelry making, gardening, and gifting others (esp. family and the parish festival) with homemade jams and jellies. As a natural history-buff, he enjoyed reading and watching the History Channel. Often, he patiently restored weary furniture to new life and was creative in tackling new projects. He could be dubbed “Mr. Fix-It.” He was willing to help anyone at any time if he was able.
The family spent many years off-roading in the desert and traveling across the States. Lake Powell was a favorite vacation site. After Tim retired from GD, they continued camping in the desert, esp. enjoying the fall “Death Valley Days.”
Tim was a wonderful husband and loving father, grandfather, and great grandfather. He was a loving family man. He was a loyal friend and good neighbor. He welcomed all to the family.
He was a man of integrity, honest and gentle, generous and kind, supportive and loving. His faith and values were steadfast and genuine--evidenced by the way he lived. He made time for others, mentoring by his down-to-earth wisdom, generous actions, and welcoming relationships. He will be greatly missed.
Words from the prophet Micah (6:8) seem to capture Tim’s journey in life—
This is what God asks of you:
Act justly, love tenderly, and walk humbly with your God.
In lieu of sending flowers--
If you care to honor Tim by means of a donation, please contribute to a worthwhile charitable cause which will benefit those in need.
