Timothy Francis Dilworth, 60

Timothy Francis Dilworth, 60, returned to his heavenly home on Dec. 20, 2020, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center after fighting a brave battle against COVID-19. His devotion to family and his faith in the Lord gave him strength and peace throughout his struggle.

Tim is survived by his beloved wife Donigale, and cherished daughter Sierra. He is also survived by his parents, Mike and Pat Dilworth, his siblings Diane, Ginni, Martha, Dan, Theresa and Mike, and many other aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his daughter Rhianna and his brother David.

Tim was born in Detroit, but spent his youth in Franklin, Massachusetts. He was a standout track and cross country runner at Franklin High School, graduating in 1978. After high school, Tim studied wildlife biology at Colorado State University and it was here that he accepted Christ as his Savior. Tim then enlisted in the United States Navy. He was admitted into the selective nuclear power program and served honorably as a nuclear submariner from 1983 to 1989 as an electrician’s mate second class on the USS Bluefish and the USS Cincinnati.

Using the electronics skills gained in the Navy, Tim worked as an electrical technician at Deer Valley Ski Resort, which allowed him to log in over 120 days of skiing each year in Utah’s famous champagne powder. Tim also met Doni, the love of his life, at Deer Valley where, in addition to skiing, they shared a faith in God and a love of hiking, rock climbing and travel. They married in 1993 and welcomed their oldest daughter Rhianna into the family a year later. Despite being new parents, their love of travel did not diminish and in 1995 they sold their home and embarked on an around-the-world backpacking trip. Spending 24-7 together with a toddler for 14 months was a true test of their marriage!

Upon returning to the states, Tim attended the University of Utah to pursue a degree in finance. During this time Sierra was born, making their family complete. Tim said he got his degree with “a baby in one arm and a book in the other.” Shortly thereafter, the family moved to Michigan where Tim pursued a Master in Accounting degree. Whereas most people dread tax time, Tim found the field of tax preparation fascinating. He earned CPA and enrolled agent designations, which allowed him to represent clients in front of the IRS. Desiring to return back to the West, the family moved to Kalispell in 2014 where Tim fulfilled a lifelong dream of opening his own business, Alpine Tax & Accounting. Tim’s work ethic and intelligence earned him the respect of the community and in 2019 Alpine Tax was voted as one of the best tax firms in the Flathead Valley.

Tim had a huge love for the outdoors; if he wasn’t with his family or at work, you’d likely find him hunting, fishing or hiking. He was an avid explorer and always wanted to reach the true summit. This true summit attitude carried over to reading as well. If Tim opened the cover of a book, he was going to finish it no matter how long it took. He also had a passion for music. He frequently played guitar and showed his goofy side by composing songs about vegetables.

Most of all, Tim loved his family dearly. He regularly kept in touch with his parents and siblings and attended all of his girls’ skiing, tennis, speech and debate competitions. Tim was a loyal friend and faithful companion to all who knew and loved him.

A memorial service and luncheon will be held to celebrate Tim's life at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, July 14, at Easthaven Baptist Church, located on Whitefish Stage Road in Kalispell. Friends, family, clients and business associates are welcome to attend.