Timothy Norbert von der Heyde

Timothy Norbert von der Heyde, affectionately known as "Reaper", was born on August 31, 1966, in Evreux, France, at the Air Force Base where his father was stationed. After his father's discharge, the family settled Perryville, MD, until the age of 13. The family then relocated to Tamarac, FL, where he graduated from Ely High School in 1984. In November 1984, he met the love of his life, a relationship that lasted his lifetime.

In 1988, Tim decided to join the Navy. After completing boot camp at Great Lakes, IL, he married his soul mate on March 10, 1989. They lived in serval places in the US before being transferred to Norfolk VA. It was while in Norfolk he experienced his proudest moment—the birth of his daughter. Shortly thereafter he was then deployed to serve in Desert Shield/Storm. Throughout his naval career and deployments to different bases, Timothy's unwavering commitment to his family remained his top priority.

After returning home and being honorably discharged, the family moved to various parts of Florida until 2021 when they relocated to Bartow in order to be closer to their daughter who lives near Savannah. It was in Bartow he found the peace that comes with country living.

A man of great humor and a perpetual optimist with a contagious smile always adorning his face, Tim found joy in life's simplest pleasures. He cherished spending time with loved ones and embraced the role of a loyal friend to many. His focus on being a loving husband and dedicated father defined him.

Tim's passion for motorcycles and scenic rides. He loved being “Reaper” on these rides and sharing these experiences with his “biker babe”. Being a proud combat veteran, it was only fitting that he joined his brothers-in-arms as a member of the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association. The camaraderie within this group mirrored the strong bonds he held dear with his own family.

In 2009, his health started to decline from injuries sustained during his active military career. He fought to stay as active and healthy in order to cherish the time with his family and friends. Tragically, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer, Tim peacefully passed away on July 31, 2024, at his residence in Bartow, GA. He leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories that will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew him.

Tim is survived by his devoted wife Amy Jo Goodrich von der Heyde; loving daughter Crystal Ouellette (Joshua) from Savannah; parents, Linda Ann Fritch von der Heyde and Dieter Norbert von der Heyde; brother Theodore von der Heyde; as well as other extended family members, members of CVMA and a multitude of friends.

The family will receive friends at James Funeral Home from 3:00-5:00PM on Saturday, August 10, 2024. After the visitation, the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association will give Reaper his last ride to his Celebration of Life service which will be held at 7479 Hwy 221 SE, Dearing GA 30808.

The family strongly suggests that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made to his beloved Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association, Inc.—an organization who loves and supports all veterans—by mailing checks to CVMA 25-6, 4115 Columbia Rd, Ste 5, PMB 325 in Martinez GA 30907 OR by using PayPal tres@cvma25-6.org. 

In honoring Tim's memory, let us celebrate a life well-lived—a life filled with love for family, country and friends—a life that will be remembered for generations to come. Rest in peace…