Timothy East
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Timothy East, 72, of Indianapolis, passed away unexpectedly Friday, Dec. 3, 2021, at Methodist Hospital.
Tim was born Feb. 13, 1949, in Anderson, to Elmer and Annabelle (Simmonds) East. He graduated from Anderson High School in 1967 as a multi-sport athlete who received state accolades for football and tennis. Tim received his bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Anderson University in 1972, where he was a stand-out football player.
Following college, Tim grew to love running and became an accomplished long-distance trail runner escaping into nature to explore the beautiful trails of central and southern Indiana at every opportunity.
Tim was a talented artist, deep thinker, and peaceful soul. Upon marrying his beloved wife, Martha, their families merged into one. An amazing husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Tim showered his family with love and adoration. He enjoyed sharing food, music, and art with his loved ones. Always the patient educator, Tim relished teaching his grandchildren various skills including photography, acrylic pours, and flower pressing.
Tim found beauty everywhere, photographing everything from graffiti to sunsets. He strived to learn the unique story of every person he encountered, constantly inquiring about those around him. Ever present in the moment, Tim could always recite the perfect quote from memory or remind you, “The adventure is its own reward.”
Tim was preceded in death by his parents; and his sisters, Mary Anne Imler and Judy (Lloyd) McKay.
Tim is survived by his wife, Martha; his children, Erin East, Matt (Rachel) East, Dawn Dwigans, Amie Dwigans, Michael (Johanna) Dwigans and Katie Brown; his grandchildren, Johnna Hamilton, Elijah Fischer, Ezra Fischer, Chelsea Orr, Taylor Orr, Emily Orr, Isaac Orr, Alexis Jones, Vincent Ocasio, Chase Dwigans, Gavin Brown, Gabrielle Brown, Elijah Brown, and Ezekiel Brown; his great-grandchildren, Kijah Orr, Dreydon Orr, Tayleigh Orr, Tember Orr, Elyzabeth Anderson, and Elyvia Anderson; his former wife, Christine East; and his brother-in-law, Richard Imler; and his many nieces and nephews.
Anderson University is on a mission to educate students for lives of faith and service, offering more than 60 undergraduate majors, 30 three-year degrees, 20 NCAA Division III intercollegiate sports, alongside adult and graduate programs. The private, liberal arts institution is fully accredited and recognized among top colleges for its business, computer science, cybersecurity, dance, engineering, nursing, and teacher education programs. Anderson University was established in 1917 in Anderson, Indiana, by the Church of God.
