Timothy Dean Hodgson

A Lifelong Learner, Master of Boilers, and the Occasional Kitchen Catastrophe (RIP Microwaves)

Timothy Dean Hodgson, 68, of Portland, Oregon, traded in his earthly tools for a heavenly toolbox on June 29th, 2024. Tim was a man of many hats: lifelong learner, prankster extraordinaire, professional story-teller, and despite his best efforts, a terrible tipper.

Born on December 2nd, 1955, to Vesta Mae and George Frederick Hodgson, Tim's love of learning started early. He graduated from Concordia Lutheran High School in 1974 and went on to pursue his studies at the Oregon Polytechnic Institute. Tim graduated in 1986 with an Associate’s of Electronics Engineering. His career path began in 1972 at Farrell's, showcasing his dedication to hard work. It was also at Farrell's that Tim forged many life-long friendships, a testament to his genuine personality and sense of humor. In 1980 he married Michelle Dritsas, and together they built a beautiful family. Daughters Katie (born 1983) and Rachel (born 1987) brought immense joy to his life, though his experiments (like the "great microwave egg debacle") might have occasionally raised their eyebrows. Later, the arrival of grandchildren Kale, Weston, Araden, and Waverly filled his days with laughter and love.

Tim's professional journey included ventures in diverse fields. In 1985 He began working at Larry & Chuck’s with his father and then purchased the company in 1987. In addition to running and owning his own small business, Tim found a fulfilling role teaching Boiler Mechanics at Portland Community College. In 2022, he embarked on a new chapter at Intel, working on their facility exhaust systems. Throughout his career, a constant remained - his passion for sharing knowledge and helping others. Whether it was mastering boilers and thermodynamics or conducting his own "experiments" (like setting hand sanitizer on fire!), Tim's approach to life was one of curiosity and exploration.

Beyond his professional pursuits, Tim was a devoted family man and a loyal friend. He cherished spending time with his loved ones, whether on road trips through Utah or simply enjoying a moment of connection. He was also an amateur inventor, known for his "poop shooter" machine and homemade rockets. He also had a profound ability to drip water on unsuspecting sleeping victims or sneak salt into someone’s coffee. In his younger years, Tim also enjoyed trips exploring the underwater world, scuba diving with the confidence of a seasoned explorer (or at least that's what he told himself). Tim often boasted he never worried about the sharks because he only ever had to outswim his buddy, Chuck. In his quieter moments, when Tim wasn't plotting his next prank or dissecting the inner workings of a toaster, he could be found indulging in his love of rocks, gems, and jewelry making.

While Tim's humor was legendary, his true foundation was based in faith. A devoted member of the Lutheran church, he lived a life guided by his beliefs. We find comfort knowing the Lord has welcomed him home.

Tim is survived by his daughters, Katie (41) and Alena (Rachel)(36), their spouses Shawn (46) and Aric (40), his four grandchildren, Kale (13), Weston (5), Araden (4), and Waverly (3) as well as countless friends and family whose lives were enriched by his presence, questionable science experiments, and enduring sense of humor. We are all better and more complete for knowing him.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of your choice, or to the National Association for the Safety of Kitchen Appliances (NASKA - a cause Tim would have wholeheartedly supported).