Alma Adelbert Timpson, Jr.

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our father, Alma Adelbert Timpson, Jr, who died peacefully in the early morning hours of January 15, 2026, at his home on Whidby Island, following a short journey with dementia. He was 84 years old.

Alma was born on January 6, 1942, in Salt Lake City, Utah, to Alma Timpson and Margery DeHart. Two years later, he was joined by his beloved and doting sister, Mary Lynn. Together, they formed a nucleus of a quiet youth—well-dressed in curiosity and intrigue. Born with a cleft lip, Alma received devoted care and attention from his mother, who believed deeply in his potential. Through her nurturing, she helped fashion him with a warm smile and gentle charm that would become hallmarks of his character. Outgoing and charismatic, Alma had a natural ability to bring laughter and life into any gathering.

He was raised in Holladay, Utah, where he pursued his education and lived his faith in the Gospel of Jesus Christ. His devotion to learning and religion helped shape a life marked by discipline, curiosity, and purpose. After graduating high school, Alma briefly entered military boot camp, but a heart murmur redirected his path. He began college at the University of Utah in the winter of 1960, pursing a degree in business finance, though his studies were soon interrupted by the beginning of his family life.

In the late spring of 1962, Alma was introduced to his wife, LaVina, with whom he shared 60 years of marriage. Together they built a large and vibrant family, raising 13 gregarious children who remain closely bonded. After several moves, Alma fulfilled a long-held vision by building a large family home—the "big" house—nestled in the hills of Dimple Dell Canyon in Sandy, Utah, a place intended to provide security, opportunity, and enduring memories for his children.

In 1978, Alma entered into a second marriage with Anne Craddock. This chapter proved to be deeply challenging for all involved, and LaVina later relocated with her unmarried children to Arizona, where she established her permanent home. Despite the distance, Alma remained devoted to LaVina and his children, supporting them faithfully and traveling regularly to spend time together. The time and distance helped galvanize and fuel his passion for reading and study, and he became deeply educated across many subjects that captured his interest.

Professionally, Alma was known as an innovator and entrepreneur. Energized by new ideas, he spent decades creating and developing businesses that employed hundreds of people and fostered professional relationships lasting more than sixty years. He was guided by integrity, driven by vision, and known for his endless compassion towards others. At his core, Alma was a kind and gentle soul.

Alma lived a life marked by ambition, intellect, and meaningful connection. His accomplishments and achievements were many, and he formed deep and lasting relationships throughout his life. In his later years, however, he chose to live in solitude and isolation, away from the reaches of his children. While this season tested their endurance, it was ultimately honored and respected as an expression of his independence, reflection, and resolve.

He often lived by the words: “A man, without his word, is nothing.”

Alma was preceded in death by his wife, LaVina; his parents; a grandson; a great-granddaughter; several women he regarded mothers; and several half-siblings.

He leaves behind his adoring sister, Mary Lynn; his 13 children; 55 grandchildren; 45 great-grandchildren; and many half-brothers, half-sisters, and friends—all of whom loved him deeply and will carry his memory forward.