Memories of Timo

Below are memories and pictures from fans of Timo. If you have a picture of yourself and Timo and wish to have it featured on this webpage, send your letter and picture to: TimotheClown.com Webmaster and be sure to put in the subject line "Memories with Timo!"

"Timo, my wife grew up seeing you at the San Mateo fair all her life, and
is very sad that she will not see you this year. You will be very much
missed.
Attached is a picture of my wife and my kids from 2001.
Thanks for the memories!!!!"
David Martinez from Pacifica

July 7, 2007, Timo made an appearance in Hidden Springs, Idaho for his nephew's 4th birthday party! It's the second longest distance Timo has ever traveled to perform his show (the longest is still his trip to Alaska for their State Fair in Fairbanks!).

August 16, 2008, E-mail from the Wright Family: "Thanks again Timo for the great performance at my kid's Chase and Hope's birthday party! You were hilarious and kept the kids attention! We appreciate the fun memory!"

Brandy, Scott, and the kiddos Chase and Hope too!

A Letter from Christopher Martin who's Band "RAVE" performed on Timo's Stage

I was 14 when my band played the San Mateo County Fair right after your performance in 1979 … our guitarist has ALWAYS associated that history with you, because how cool is it to say you played with Timo!!?!

We’re all old now, and are reminiscing. Hope all is well. Loved your website!!!

Class of 1979

Letter from Kaseberg Elementary School Parent/Teacher Club

The Kaseberg PTC and Fall Family Festival Coordinators are deeply saddened by the loss of Timo the Clown who had been a part of the Kaseberg Fall Family Festival for years.

KNCI's Pat Still & Tom Mailey's Tribute to Timo

To listen to Pat & Tom's tribute to Timo and a little bit of the song they chose to honor him, click on the KNCI Logo below!

Paul Robins of FOX 40 Live pays Tribute to Timo

To see the video of Paul Robins's Tribute, click on his picture below!

Note from Bryan Barrett (from Timo's Facebook Page)

timo..you were a great friend to myself and to my grandpa richerd,thank you for all the smiles you gave me as a little child at lodge and at there house..you are and will be the best clown..we'll miss you

Note from Cecilia Greening (from Timo's Facebook Page)

Timo came to our house in Penryn twice for my oldest son's birthday and my daughter's birthday. He was a wonderful man and all the children loved him!! Actually, the last time we saw him was on my daughter's 8th birthday, and now she is 14 years old. He was a complete joy to be around. He will be missed!!

Note from Lisa Daino (from Timo's Facebook Page)

Timo was an amazing part of our family- the most genuine guy with a HUGE HUGE Heart of gold- he will be greatly missed... :(
such sad sad news...

Note from Susan Dishaw (from Timo's Facebook Page)

God Bless You Timo

Note from Emily Strauch, Timo's Great-Niece (from Timo's Facebook Page)

I will miss you great uncle timo):

Note from Donna Fairchild (from Timo's Facebook Page)

I'm so saddened by Tim's passing and offer his family my sincere condolences. Tim and I were confirmed together at St. John's Lutheran Church. I will never forget going to the State Fair years later with my two little girls and being greeted by Timo the Clown, whose face I could not recognize, with a hearty "Hello, D...onna!" After a long time of making me guess how the State Fair Clown knew my name, Tim finally told me and reminded me of our happy church days together. Farewell, my friend, till we meet again!

Letter from Kendall Young, Twin Rivers Unified School District

I offer my deepest sympathy at the loss of such a great educator. I appreciate the many years spent in conversation regarding our fraternal affiliations, and send my regards to the family. To his wife, my prayers are with you.

God Bless

Rev. Kendall Young

Commander In Chief

Exemplar Consistory #299

Sacramento, CA.

Letter from Tom Whiteford, former student and co-worker

I knew Timo as the Colonel. I was a former student of his and then a co-worker. We both taught a program called the California Cadet Corps. I followed him as a student educator learning his methods of teaching Cadets. I learned a good sense of humor with the students goes a long ways. The Colonel taught me a lot of things and was a great mentor. I know I have not seen him in years, but I think of him often. I know I am a better man because of him. I will miss you Colonel.

Essayons,

Tom Whiteford

The Photo Slideshow shown at "Timo's" Memorial Service

(to stop the "Thanks for the Memories" song, click on "stop" at the top of your browser's address bar)

Letter from Debbie Meier, Timo's Cousin

Tim Strauch, my cousin.

I have many childhood memories of Tim and Timo. He had known me since I was a teeny sprout. If you have never seen a clown get ready for a show and you get the chance I highly recommend it. Tim was so serious, looking into the mirror, getting his face just so. One of the few times I saw him “serious.” How he kept a straight face doing his makeup I will never know. Hewould explain each step and would transform right before my eyes, it was amazing.

Tim was great at including many friends and family in his life and work, he was very happy to do so. As a girl and a teen I had the great fun of working with Timo and Susan at the State Fair and other events. Excellent, happy times. I met some real characters that I will never forget. I was able to use my artistic talent to make money too, so that was awesome.

Cousin Tim, sometimes, was a stay at home dad too. Tim was an excellent Dad and father figure to many kids. Sometimes he was a baby sitter, more like father goose to all of us in his charge. Chantelle and Timmy were lucky to have him.

I learned how to make the best tacos at Tim and Susan's. Of course Tim entertained us with the magic tricks and tested out some new stuff on us. My very favorite, the famous Ding-a-ling bit. I cannot believe I can never see that one again.

Tim, I know you are rubbing elbows with some of the greatest entertainers and clowns in the hereafter. Hope you are having fun.

Debbie

What a nice write-up! 'Timo the Clown' did himself proud to the young kids lives' that were not even related to him, but he took an interest in knowing they could make something of themselves.With a little example of what a man is and being a productive part of society. Chris Eldredge is testament to that.God bless you, Timo! & the many other unsung heroes out there who do it daily without recognition, but to see the fruit of their labor to fruition when the young person stays out of trouble & makes a life for themselves & "pays it forward". "Bravo Timo"! - Username: Scareygirl

Tim Strauch was an individual that treated all with respect and courtesy. I always enjoyed the positive energy that came from Tim/Timo since his enthusiasm was contagious. Tim will be missed. - Username: annettee

Read more: http://www.sacbee.com/2010/11/19/3197310/obituary-timothy-john-strauch.html#ixzz15x63CzJd

Farewell Colonel by Christophe

“HEY CHRISTOPHE!” Your usual call to come out and play, or at least chat on the phone… still rings in my ear. You wanting to check up on your family, “How’s MY daughter..., and MY grandkids...?” You never missed and opportunity to tell us how much you loved us, and let us know how much you care.

Some say this is a strange thing, like he’s not really YOUR “Dad.” I explain “you just don’t get it,” he’s the only father I ever had. He was my California Cadet Corps teacher, a strict schoolmaster, who became my mentor and “Dad.” Maybe they really don’t understand it, but “we” don’t really care! All of us kids; Timmy, Chan, Byron and me, my adopted brothers and sister, know we were loved unconditionally… and that’s all that matters.

And from all your Cadet Corps brethren at Highlands, Norte, Grant, Rio Tierra, and Don Julio…We love you! You were NEVER JUST A TEACHER, but always a loving mentor, who sacrificed greatly, and taught us important life lessons we still cherish today. You were iconic to those of us who were yoked by your firm… yet gentle hand. And we thank you for teaching us about leadership, citizenship, and especially being patriotic to our country America, you so dearly loved. Most important we learned about life! So many of us impacted, and our lives forever changed.

I was lucky… as a curly headed kid at 12… you brought me home for dinner one day, and as they say, “that’s all she wrote.” I don’t think you realized what you were getting into…I’m sorry for all my faux pas and frustrations I might have brought along. Although, I cherish so fondly the laughter, debates, late night discussions, and even heart-felt disagreements we shared. You were ALWAYS THERE for me. You came to my graduation at NMMI, and were the only one who was able to come to my christening as an ... Agent…. that was so important, to the both of us! You flew to Texas to see your grandkids after they were born. You honored a life-long commitment as father and “Papa.” Your grandchildren loved you so dearly, it brings tears to all our eyes…they will incredibly miss you “Pappy” or “Papa Colonel”, as they still say.

You know… some people are born into great families… and some are JUST SO BLESSED to be LOVED into them! We’ve all felt God’s hand upon us, especially through you, through the joy…. and…that “magic” you shared. You’ve taught us important life lessons… like how to LIVE WELL, LAUGH OFTEN, LOVE FREELY, and GIVE YOURSELF AWAY! This whole heaven thing is a bit confusing, but the good Lord knows. It’s not “goodbye,” but only that we’ll “see you later”…. in heaven one day.

WE LOVE YOU COLONEL! is really what we want to say. We won’t all fear this… because I thought I heard you say…“Hey Buddy… don’t worry, I’M RIGHT HERE WITH YOU,” just YESTERDAY!

Your loving “Son” Christophe

Letter from Mark S. Allen of "Good Day Sacramento"

25 years ago, my first day in town KSFM102 radio had assigned me to the state fair and little did I know that was the day I would meet our city's biggest star: TIMO THE CLOWN. He came up to me while I was live on the radio and said "HEY-I'M TIMO THE CLOWN," in a voice that was loud, in charge, but at the same time instantly disarming. I saw him at least once a year after that, and when my children were younger, even had the pleasure of having him at our parties. Every time he had a chance he would surprise me (and I suspect anyone), either on live tv, the radio, or any off guard moment. I've been talking about him non stop this last week, to friends and family and neighbors. It's amazing how many lives TIMO, and his good friend TIM have touched. We were blessed to know him. I'll never forget him. My first Sacramento broadcast interview and what an honor it was.

-Mark S. Allen

CBS TV

Good Day Sacramento

Photo of Timo Painting taken at his Memorial, by Mark S. Allen

Letter from Kim Campe (via Mark S. Allen's Blog site)

My daughter and I met Colonel Strauch Jan. 2010 when I transferred her to Keema High School and he became her teacher. He was an awesome guy, and a great teacher. He will be greatly missed. Even though she now has a different teacher, she still looked forward to going downstairs and visiting with the Colonel after her class was over.

Colonel Strach, we will miss you very much. Although we know you are in a better place now and free of all pain. Our hearts and prayers are with you and your family. Rest in peace, Colonel Strauch.

Letter from Elaine Crane Hersch (via Mark S. Allen's Blog site)
Col. Strauch and I were best buddies back in the late 70's and early 80's. We worked together at Rio Tierra JHS where he was a teacher. Tim always had a big smile and a positive attitude and loved having conversations. He was the kindest man you ever wanted to know. I still have several of his "Timo the Clown" pin collections in my jewelry box. Tim often talked about his wife and how much he loved her. They were a match made in heaven. It's funny that after 33 years we made a full circle and worked again for Ed Options for Twin Rivers School district. I and the rest of the crew will miss Tim so much. He was one in a million.

Elaine Crane Hersch (co-worker)

Letter from Jennifer Whitney, former KOVR TV Anchor

I am so sorry to hear of Tim's passing. My family and I were so saddened...I looked it up on Sac Bee online and realized he was just 65 years old---so sudden and far too young.

Susan, he was such a wonderful man, although I know I don't have to tell you that. He had such a warmth about him that was so endearing. I asked my son if he remembered that birthday (he's now 18) and he said "yes, of course -- it was the best birthday ever"...

What a great gift that was to be able to touch children's lives and leave such wonderful, happy memories. I was so happy when we reconnected on Facebook....and I'm so sad for everyone at his passing.

May God comfort you.

xoxoxo

Jennifer Whitney and Family

Letter from Timo's Wife - February 1, 2011

I want to take this time to THANK EVERYONE who sent pictures and remembrances of my wonderful husband Tim/Timo. It truly means so very much to me and to our family to be able to check in on Timo's Website and read what you have said about him. Also, to see any pictures you have posted as well. This truly means the world to me and his entire family.

I want you to know that on Friday January 28th, 2011 we laid Tim's ashes at the Sacramento Valley VA National Cemetery, located in Dixon, CA on Midway Road right off of Interstate 80. It is the most beautiful , serene, calming, amazing place to have laid him to rest in peace. Thank you to our Sons Christophe & Byron for suggesting this to Timmy II , Chantelle & myself upon his death. Thank you Chris for searching it all out and getting him into the marvelous resting place. His entire family Wife, Children, Grandchildren, Daughter's-in-Law, Son-in-Law, Brothers, Sister, Sisters-in-Law, Brother-in-Law, Many Nephews & Nieces, Great Nephews & Nieces and all of his MANY Friends and Students, now have the chance to visit him anytime at this National Cemetery.

Again, I cannot thank everyone enough, for all your love & support through this tragic time I am dealing with. Your calls, cards, Facebook messages and Letters on Timo's Website truly keep a smile of my face.

Much Love,

Susan - Tim/Timo's Wife

Project created by Timo's Great-Nephew Andrew

Andrew participated in a fundraiser at his school to help bring awareness to the importance of heart health. Part of his project was to create a poster that displays someone he knew who suffered from heart problems. He chose his great uncle Timo! Here's his poster in memory of Timo.

Letter from Angelina Meyers, former student
I was a student of Col Strauch's at Norte Del Rio in 73/74 & one of the first female cadets.
He was a very good & caring person...he just wasn't a teacher but a friend with whom confidences told were never shared. His encouragement to do & be better helped me to do just that.
I learned the basics of being ready for most anything...learned how to dig a proper latrine...what fun eh?

There aren't many words that haven't been said. He will be missed.

Thanks, Col

Angelina Haydis Meyers

P.S.: Yes, I also knew him as Timo...he was the only clown my daughter was not afraid of...which says alot because to this day (she is 31) she still dislikes clowns.

Letter from Kira Palmer, Fellow Fair Going Family Member
My grandfather had a candy store that he would take to Fairs and Horse Shows. Every year when I was a kid I was his helper at the San Mateo County Fair. When I think about it now I remember I ended up helping Timo more often than I actually helped my Grandfather.
Some of my great memories is how I was allowed to ride with him in his car every so often. I remember feeling so special because I didn't know of many other kids who were allowed to ride with him. I loved watching his shows. Even though I knew most of the tricks I still enjoyed watching them and observing how into it the other kids were.

Even after my grandfather retired his candy store I still kept in touch with Timo through letters and eventually email. I know that part of who I am today is what I've experienced in my life and meeting Timo the Clown was an experience that helped form me into who I am today. I am grateful to have had him as a friend throughout my years growing up.

I will always remember how he was always happy and upbeat and how genuine heart was.

Sincerely,

Kira L. Palmer