Sulima, Timothy M. ‘Tim’
Timothy M. “Tim” Sulima, 70, of Wheaton, passed away on December 20, 2022. Beloved son of Patricia (nee Ryan) and the late Edwin Sulima; loving brother of Pam Sulima and Kim Gartlan; cherished uncle of Mike (Erica) Sweitzer-Beckman, Kristy Geffen, Nathan (fiancé Priyanka) Gartlan, and Olivia Gartlan; fond great uncle of Josie Geffen and Ruth and Eddy Sweitzer-Beckman; devoted nephew and cousin; “adopted uncle” of Eric Schmidt and Nicole Ferree; loyal friend of Wally and Kathy Schmidt and many wonderful friends from every stage of his life.
Tim was born at Little Company of Mary Hospital in Evergreen Park where, many years later, he worked the night shift in security. He lived most of his life on the southside of Chicago and more recently in Oak Lawn, where he had many friends and was a favorite among his neighbors and coworkers. Tim was a graduate of St. Mary Star of the Sea School, St. Laurence High School, and Moraine Valley Community College. He was a life-long Chicago White Sox and Blackhawks fan. Tim was a musician, playing the accordion and organ and often whistling a tune, as well as an athlete, playing baseball, hockey, golf and bowling. He will be remembered for his love of all things Christmas, including playing Santa Claus for family, friends and at hospital parties, and passing out candy canes at Midway Airport. Most of all, Tim was devoted to his family, friends and community, demonstrating concern, generosity, and humor and unwavering availability to help, serve, and support.
Tim endured many medical problems over the years, and his life changed dramatically when he suffered a complete spinal cord injury in 2009. However, he considered himself “lucky because I’m only paralyzed from the waist down”. Physical challenges did not define him. He enjoyed archery, pinochle, chess, watching sports, and visiting with his family and friends. Tim explored new interests including gardening and playing hand bells and participated in all activities at the DuPage Care Center. His good nature and resilience were an inspiration to all who were blessed to know him. May he find everlasting joy and peace with Our Lord in heaven. Visitation will be Friday, January 6, 2023 from 3 to 8 p.m. at 430 E. Roosevelt Rd, Wheaton, IL 60187. Funeral Mass will be held at 10 a.m. at St. Irene Catholic Church, 28W441 Warrenville Rd, Warrenville, IL 60555.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the DuPage Care Center Foundation, 400 N. County Farm Rd, Wheaton, IL 60187. dpccfoundation@dupageco. org , would be greatly appreciated. Funeral info (630)668-0016 or www.williams-kampp.com