Timothy Brian Christophersen

Timothy Brian Christophersen passed away on July 3, 2025, at the age of 74. Born in Sidney, New York, on February 20, 1951, Tim was raised in Unadilla and made Norwich his permanent home in the early 1970s. In 1969, he enlisted in the United States Navy and served until 1971, a commitment that marked the beginning of a lifetime of service.

Tim began his public safety career at the Norwich Police Department in 1974, but it was in 1980 that he found his true calling when he joined the Norwich Fire Department. Over the next nearly 30 years, he proudly served the City of Norwich as a dedicated firefighter. His commitment, courage, and steady leadership earned him the respect of his peers and the community alike.

In September 2001, Tim was promoted to captain. Just days later, while attending training school, the world changed. When the first tower of the World Trade Center was struck, Tim was called to action. He spent the following weeks at Ground Zero, working alongside fellow firefighters in the aftermath of one of the nation’s darkest days. It was a chapter of his life that he carried with solemn pride.

Tim was deeply proud of his country, his community, and his brothers and sisters in the Norwich Fire Department. His service embodied the values he held close: loyalty, bravery, and a quiet, unwavering sense of duty.

Above all else, Tim loved his children, Caylinn and Cody, with his whole heart. They were the center of his world, and everything he did was for them. When his grandchildren, Paisley, Timmy, Evie, and Joey came along, his heart grew even fuller. Being their Pop Pop brought him immense joy and purpose. He adored them beyond words, and his life revolved around making sure they felt safe, loved, and supported. Tim’s greatest pride and legacy was his family, for whom he sacrificed everything without hesitation.

Tim also shared a deep and meaningful bond with his nephew Brian and held a special place in his heart for Brian’s sons, Zach and Cooper. He cherished the time they spent together, especially their shared love of hunting and fishing.

He also formed a lifelong brotherhood with fellow firefighter Billy Ballin, who was like a son to him. Tim was incredibly proud of the man and firefighter Billy became, and their relationship was built on trust, respect, and genuine love.

Tim will be remembered not only for his unwavering dedication to service but also for his sense of humor, his steady presence, and the quiet strength he brought into every room. Whether he was sharing a story around a firehouse table or casting a line off the boat Tim had a way of making people feel valued, protected, and never alone.

In addition to his parents, Tim was predeceased by his brother Alan and his sisters Judy, Brenda, Desi, and Lisa. He is survived by his brothers Warren, Pete, and Roy, and his sisters Karen, Susie, Patty, and Pammy.

Calling hours will be held at Fahy's Funeral Home on Thursday, July 17th, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. A funeral service will take place on Friday, July 18th, at 11:00 a.m. at the United Methodist Church in Norwich. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Tim’s life.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Tim’s memory, an organization close to his heart.