Harold Timber

Harold Timber, a long time Taos resident, passed away at his residence on January 19, 2018. Born in Milwaukee as Harold Ceranowski on April 21, 1927, the family name was later changed to Timber, after “Harry’s Timber Camp” a well-known Milwaukee Establishment founded by his father. His early years were spent helping with the family businesses which included taverns, restaurants, and real estate. This experience left an indelible mark on who he would become…an entrepreneur, canine lover, philanthropist, political activist and contributor towards higher education. His boundless humor, energy and quick wit were important factors in his success.

Harold graduated from Marquette University High School, class of 1945 and subsequently received an appointment to West Point Military Academy where he studied Military Intelligence as a cadet. Upon leaving West Point he returned to Milwaukee and attended Marquette University where he majored in Philosophy. In the early 1950’s He opened his first restaurant, The Telstar, a popular drive in and expanded his restaurant business by opening several Pizza Restaurants called Dinos. During this time, he traveled to Guadalajara, Mexico where he spent time doing missionary work and earned a Masters degree in Political Science.
In 1976, Harold purchased La Dona Luz Restaurant, a Taos Institution. His three sons Matthew, Mark and Michael followed him to Taos to operate the restaurant with him. He sold the award- winning restaurant in 1990. He returned to Milwaukee to be with his elderly mother and opened another restaurant called Santa Fe Bar & Grill which quickly became a Milwaukee favorite. But Harold’s heart was always in Taos and he again moved to his beloved area in the late 1990’s after his mother’s passing.

Through out his life Harold won many awards and participated in significant events. He won the World Chile Cookoff twice and proudly showed the trophies he won leading up to becoming the World Chile Champ. He developed a line of spices for Durkee Spice Company and consulted with Japanese investors who developed the first Mexican Restaurant in Osaka, Japan. He once cooked Chile for Governor Richardson who was hosting the royal family from Monaco. He cooked Chile on the White House grounds hoping to get publicity to make Chile the national dish. This led to an appearance on the Regis and Kathy Lee show. He won scores of blue ribbons and “Best of Show” awards at the Taos County Fair and was active with this endeavor through 2017.
As a dog lover, he donated significant amounts to canine rescue groups and served as a Board Member for Stray Hearts. As an advocate for education, he donated a significant amount to Marquette University High School for a perpetual scholarship fund. As a local advocate, he was the key activist in reducing gas prices by supporting greater competition. He was a member of El Pueblito Methodist Church in Taos.

Harold loved to travel. He enjoyed camping with his sons. He hiked parts of Peru, Glacier Park and the Great Wall of China. He was an avid sportsman and hunter. And he traveled extensively throughout Europe, Mexico, and Central America including several trips on the Amazon.

He is preceded in death by his father, Harry Timber, his mother Emily Timber, former wife Geraldine Timber, nee: Tehan (the mother of his children), and his daughter, Kathy Timber Schultz. He is survived by four children: Michael Timber of Taos, Mark and (wife) Judy Timber of Oak Creek, WI, Matthew Timber of New York, and Marilyn and (husband) Mike Haley of Oak Creek, WI. He is also survived by his aunt, Irene Wichgers of Oconomowoc, WI, 13 grandchildren, 20 great grandchildren and his former wife, Jeanne Timber of Taos. In addition, he is survived by his Doberman canine companion, Lucky, who was always loyal and at his side until his passing.

Harold will be missed by his many friends and relatives. A private memorial service is planned for the spring.