Timothy Lynn Quakenbush

Timothy Lynn Quakenbush, 72, passed away on Thursday, February 18, 2021, in Albuquerque, NM.

Tim was born on December 11, 1948 in Frankfort, IN, to Harley Quakenbush Jr. and Gertrude (Suhre) Quakenbush. He grew up in Forest, IN, and after graduating from Clinton Central High School in 1966, he attended Purdue University in West Lafayette, IN. While at Purdue, Tim joined the ROTC program and learned about the Aviation Maintenance Technology program that they offered. He learned to fly while attending Purdue. In 1969, Tim married Gail Ann (Avery) Quakenbush, and they had two daughters together, Stefanie and Christa. They were married for 29 years. Tim graduated from Purdue in 1969 with an Associate's Degree in Aviation Maintenance Technology, and in 1971 with a Bachelor's Degree in Industrial Supervision. He earned a Master's Degree in Management from Webster University in 1979.

After graduating from Purdue University in 1971, Tim was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the United States Air Force. He was first stationed at Laughlin AFB, TX, where he became a pilot and trained in the T-38, which he eventually instructed other pilots in. His second assignment was to McConnell AFB, KS, where he was a Missile Launch Officer. He then returned to flight duties and flew the F-111 Aardvark when he was stationed at RAF Lakenheath, England and Cannon AFB, NM. Tim retired from the Air Force as a Lieutenant Colonel, after 23 years of service in 1994, at Cannon AFB, NM.

After his retirement, he was manager of the Melrose Bombing Range for the Air Force, near Cannon AFB. He later moved to Albuquerque, where he worked as a Facility Maintenance Manager for Department of Energy contractors at Kirtland AFB. He retired from his job at Kirtland AFB in July of 2017.

Tim enjoyed watching NASCAR racing in his spare time. He was even able to participate in a few NASCAR Racing Experiences over the years, which he really enjoyed.

Tim is survived by his two daughters, Stefanie Chambless and husband, Scott of Highlands Ranch, CO, Christa Vaughan and husband, Scott of Mascoutah, IL; his brother, Robert Quakenbush of Gates, NC; five grandchildren, Zachary Chambless, David Chambless, Lauren Vaughan, Matthew Vaughan, and Rebecca Vaughan; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father, Harley Quakenbush Jr.; his mother, Gertrude (Suhre) Quakenbush Grove Hansen; step-father, Robert Grove; step-father, Richard Hansen; and brother, Jerry Quakenbush.

A memorial service will be held at a later date. Donations may be made in Tim's honor to the Alzheimer's Association, or the National Coalition for Homeless Veterans.