Ian V. Tims

Ian V. Tims, a distinguished pulmonary physiologist and cherished member of the Munster, IN community, passed away peacefully on September 4, 2024, at the age of 87. Born in the Netherlands, Ian dedicated his life to the field of pulmonary physiology, earning advanced degrees from the Academy for Physical Education in The Hague, the Medical School for Physiotherapy & Rehabilitation in Amsterdam, and the Institute for Rheumatology in Amsterdam. His illustrious career included significant contributions to the Governmental Institute for Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation in Amsterdam and various esteemed institutions in the United States, such as The University of Chicago and Rush Medical Center. Ian's professional journey in the U.S. began in 1966 when he accepted a role to lead a pulmonary project at St. Catherine's Hospital in East Chicago, IN. He held multiple positions, including Director of the Pulmonary Project at St. Catherine’s, and was involved in research and teaching at various hospitals, including St. James Hospital in Chicago Heights, Little Company of Mary Hospital in Chicago, and Palos Heights, among others. In addition to his career, Ian was known for his vibrant personal life. He was an avid pianist and guitarist, enjoyed landscaping and gardening, and loved traveling, camping, boating, hiking, and swimming. Ian was also a devoted reader, an enthusiast of classical and Caribbean music, and took pleasure in researching current topics at local libraries. He was particularly proud of his art shows with his beloved wife, Machteld, and his restored antique model ships. Ian was a member of St Thomas More Church in Munster Fluent in multiple languages and a dedicated researcher, Ian stayed current in his field and took joy in socializing with friends at the condo pool and researching his family tree. Ian's life was deeply enriched by his family. He is survived by his children, Barbara (Jeffery) Wright and Guido (Shelley) Tims; his grandchildren, Lauren (Jason) Smith, Derek Gilbert, Calvin (Megan) Tims, Samantha (Codie) Sarll, Geoffrey Zane Wright (Brittany Macrini), and Zachary (Maggie) Wright; and great-grandchildren, Jada Smith, Judah Smith, Jireh Smith, Will Tims, Leo Tims, and Emery Tims. He is also survived by his sister-in-law, Maria Tims; his niece, Pat Tims-Taylor and family; nephew, Jeffery (Colleen) and family; Caroline Roskam and family; Lysanne Sizoo and family; and Bram Sizoo and family. Ian was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 63 years, Machteld, as well as his parents, Thomas and Wilhelmina Tims, and his brother, Hugo Tims. Ian's lifelong commitment to improving the lives of others and his love for Curacao, where he met and married the love of his life, Machteld, in 1959, will be fondly remembered. Following cremation, a private family celebration of Ian's life will be held. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to The Dutch Caribbean Nature Alliance (dcnanature.org) or a charity of your choice. Please visit www.chapellawnfunerals.com to share a favorite memory or to sign the online guest registry. Ian V. Tims is remembered with deep respect and affection for his contributions to medicine and his enduring impact on those around him.