The in-box still bears his name

This from Kari, another co-worker of Timm's from the Salem office of Congresswoman Darlene Hooley.

* * *

I miss Timm.

Every time I open the door that leads to my desk, I think about him. In my head, I still say "Good morning, Timm" ... Not always in my head, sometimes out loud. And I still can't bring myself to take his name off his in box. These are just small things that allow me to remember him.

A congressional office is rarely the first resource people think to contact when troubles arise. Timm was often the last stop for those who called or stopped by and had lost all hope. I'm talking about the completely destitute, the homeless, the working poor, the mentally ill ... the truly invisible people we all know are there. He was an unfailing comfort to them. His work here was profound. I can still see him hunched over his desk searching for an answer to their misery. Just by watching and listening, what I learned will last a lifetime. I know I risk sounding silly, but if you knew Timm, it isn't: By comforting those in need, by being selfless, we are raising humanity. I know this was a product of his faith. He lived it in every aspect of his life.

He touched people in a way that is uncommon and lasting. A rare gift indeed.