Timothy Raynaldo Mares
Tim’s work on earth is done, and work he has known since he was a very young boy. From selling newspapers at the corner of the Northern Hotel, shining shoes at Gus’ Place, to working in the beet fields for his father, and all while going to elementary school. It was a strong start for a long life of service to others.
Tim was born to Rev. Timothy and Eloisa Mares in Meed, Colorado. He was the first child in a family of 14 children. His early school years were spent in the Onieda School near Ballantine. The family later moved to Billings where he continued his work and schooling. He graduated with a MA degree from University of Montana, Bozeman, and additional work at University of Colorado, Greeley. Tim was employed by the Billings Public Schools where he served 32 years as a teacher and elementary principal. He was a very caring man and loved his work.
Tim proudly served in the United States Army with an assignment in Germany. Tim married Celeste Lucille Iams. They had four children, who he loved dearly; Carmi Mares, Timothy Mares III, Arin Mares, and Madolla Mares. Madolla preceded him in death at the age of 9 years old.
He was a man of strong faith in the Lord and lived that faith with family, friends, and work. He was a member of Faith Chapel.
In his retirement years (well, he really never retired from anything) but continued to work by buying and remodeling houses. Tim and Lou loved to travel in their motor home, visiting all the states, Mexico, Canada and a few Asian countries. Tim liked to fish, spending many winters fishing the coastal waters in Texas. Both were avid birdwatchers, always looking for the next new bird. Many dear friends were made throughout their travels. He continued to travel until Parkinson’s made it difficult.
Tim is survived by his wife of 59 years, Celeste Mares; children Carmi, Arin and Timothy; grandchildren Louise Bray, Douglas Demaree, Steven Mares, Maria Madland, Jordan and Elliot Mares-Manton and Hunter Mares; as well as 6 great-grandchildren. Tim is also survived by his brothers, Steven (Gloria), Sie (Paula), John and Clyde (Jeanie); and sisters Dorothy, Clara (Ed), Violet and Sally (Dennis).
Should friends desire, memorials can be made to Parkinson’s Foundation or Montana Rescue Mission. A memorial service will be held at a later date.
To anyone who has given friendship and joy to Tim along the way – Thank You!
Remembrances
Please leave your name and remembrance in this public guest book. Your comments will be shared on this page and forwarded to the family.
Mr. Mares was my principal at Taft School in Billings. He was always
so nice and would watch over everyone. I was in the third grade and
had to wear these "special shoes" and the kids would tease me about
my baby shoes. Mr Mares took the time to explain to them why I had
to wear them. I will always remember his kindness and patience.
Cecelia M. Kimble
Tim was a very good friend and a great guy to work with. There were
a group of us that hung out together for coffee, at meetings,
functions and sharing the good times of being a principal. Tim's
sense of humor always enlightened those around him . To say he had a
positive attitude is an understatement. He never a bad word to say
about anyone. A special devotion was given his students and staff.
His compassion for others was a strength displayed often. Tim was a
most positive influence in education. I have many good memories of
working with Tim and sharing his company.
Del Christman
Retired Principal
My name is Julie McClelland. I had Mr Mares as a teacher at
Eastern Elementary School. He was the 6th grade teacher and I
was the lucky student in 1965. He was an excellent educator and
a nice man. He remembered me for years later when we would have
the opportunity to see one another out somewhere. He leaves many
thankful students , as myself, who were privileged to have known
him and had him as a part of our educational history. Godspeed
Mr Mares!
My thoughts and prayers are with you in this time of loss. Love
never ends.
Sincerely,
Julie
Tim and I became close professional and personal friends while
he was Principal at Taft Elementary School and I was Principal
at Garfield Elementary School. Later, Mr. Bill Serette,
Assistant Superintendent of School District #2 in Billings,
selected Tim and me to supervise the Teacher Corps project for
the schools. Tim was a great person with whom to work. He always
went out of his way to work with the teachers in training
through this program, in cooperation with MSU Billings. He had
an incredible gift of relating with children and always drew out
the best in anyone whom he met. He truly lived out his faith in
Jesus day to day.
My wife Corky and I fondly remember that day bird watching down
at High Island, Texas, Celeste! As we pulled up to the metal
gate to enter the reserve, a man came up to our car and asked
something about why we were hoping to enter. Much to our
surprise, it was Tim teasing us with his great sense of humor.
How fun it was to run into the two of you over a thousand miles
from Billings! After my retirement, it was always a pleasure for
Corky and I to run into the two of you while "birding" or at
church.
Our deepest condolences and our prayers go out for you and your
extended family, Celeste. My God bless you.
Bill and Corky Knebel