Timothy Wohlforth, born in Bridgeport, Connecticut, on May 15, 1933, passed away peacefully at home on August 23, 2019, at the age of 86.
Tim boarded at Oakwood Friends School from 8th through 11th grades, and he kept in touch with friends from Oakwood throughout the rest of his life. He graduated from Oberlin College, where he actively promoted the ideals and activities of the Democratic Socialists of America. He continued to support social democracy and workers’ rights, both in beliefs and in actions. He worked as a lithographer, an editor, and a writer. He wrote ten books, most of which are mysteries in noir mood. Recently his book Harry was adapted for the stage.
When he moved to Ashland 12 years ago, he continued to write and founded a mystery writers’ group, the Monday Mayhem Writers. He taught a variety of classes at OLLI, including The Dangers of Cults, Utopia, and others with political themes. For the past seven years, he and friends hosted a weekly film group which views and discusses films of varied genres. He was also happy to be part of the Friday Night Poker Boys, men who became close friends and supported him and Patricia through Tim’s final months.
Tim loved natural beauty, the mountains, the redwoods. He was adventurous, an independent thinker who didn’t “suffer fools gladly” but who forgave easily and wanted to “keep the peace.” He had a generous nature, never hesitating to help out or to support an important cause. He maintained many strong connections with friends and family, and he deeply appreciated the people who cared for him. His family and loved ones were very important to him.– his biological family, his family with Patricia, and his Meeting family.
Tim began attending South Mountain Friends Meeting as soon as he arrived in Ashland and was faithful about showing up for Sunday morning worship. He was a warm member of our community, always asking how we were. We were delighted by his big smile and hugs – and by his willingness to take on responsibilities on behalf of the meeting. He served on the Peace and Social Concerns committee, as a Meetinghouse Opener, on Hospitality Committee and on the Joint Committee with Peace House. He was moved by and grateful for Friends’ holding him in Light during his final months. He was an intelligent, committed, kind, caring man.
Tim is survived by his dearly-loved partner Patricia, his son Bill, his brother Eric, his grandsons Owen and Charlie, his granddaughter Carla, and his daughter-in-law Teresa. We all miss him.