News Summary
Tim Mackinaw, a beloved veteran and devoted family member, has passed away, leaving a legacy of kindness and service. Known as ‘Uncle Tim,’ he impacted many lives through his military service and family dedication. A visitation to honor him will be held soon, celebrating the life of a remarkable individual who mentored and supported those around him.
Birmingham – Tim Mackinaw, a devoted family member, proud veteran, and dedicated public servant, passed away recently, leaving behind a legacy of service and deep family ties. Born on New Year’s Eve in 1951, Mackinaw often joked that the entire world celebrated his birthday alongside him every year. He was the 11th of 13 children in a large Irish Catholic family and the seventh of nine brothers. Although he never married or had children of his own, he was affectionately known as “Uncle Tim” to many, embodying the role of a father figure, friend, and mentor to his numerous nieces and nephews.
Raised on Irish Hill in Pratt City, Mackinaw’s upbringing was steeped in community and family values. He graduated from St. Catherine Grade School and later attended both John Carroll Catholic High School and Jefferson State Community College, eventually transferring to the University of Alabama at Birmingham. During his college years, he pledged to the Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity, which was a defining experience in his formative years.
Mackinaw’s commitment to service extended beyond his family and education. He proudly served as a member of the Seabee Naval Reserve, a group known as the “Dixie Doers.” Over his 30-year military career, he achieved the rank of Electronics Technician First Class and was recognized with the Navy Achievement Medal for his outstanding contributions during critical operations, including his deployment to the Persian Gulf during Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm.
In addition to his military service, Mackinaw had a successful civilian career, working as a Systems Support Representative for SunGuard for three decades. His dedication to teaching and safety also shone through as he took pride in educating his siblings, nieces, and nephews about gun safety, drawing from his passion as an avid gun enthusiast.
Known for his kindness and loyalty, he devoted much of his time as a caregiver to his aging parents, marking him as a reliable and loving member of his family. Mackinaw’s warmth and deep caring nature made him beloved among his peers and family. His passion for history and love for traveling contributed to extensive journeys across the United States and Europe, with Ireland remaining a treasured favorite.
Mackinaw is preceded in death by his grandparents, parents, and several siblings, including Hugh Jr., George, Steve, Moni, Chris, Pat, and Denis. He is survived by his beloved siblings Peggy, Anne, John, Mary, and Mike, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and friends who will carry forward his memory.
In honor of Tim Mackinaw’s life and service, a visitation will be held on Saturday, July 5, 2025, from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. at Elmwood Funeral Home. Following the visitation, a mass will be celebrated by Father Vernon Huguley at 11:00 a.m., with a graveside service including military honors to follow at the Mackinaw family plot. Friends and family are invited to come together to remember a man who dedicated his life to his family and country, leaving an indelible mark on all who knew him.
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Additional Resources
- Dignity Memorial: Tim Mackinaw Obituary
- Wikipedia: Veterans in the United States
- Dignity Memorial: Funeral Services
- Google Search: Military Honors
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Seabees
Author: STAFF HERE BIRMINGHAM WRITER
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