Timothy Andrew Wohlforth

Wohlforth—Timothy Andrew Wohlforth, 86, on August 23, 2019, at home in Ashland, Ore., peacefully. Tim was born on May 15, 1933, in Bridgeport, Conn. He boarded at Oakwood Friends School from eighth through eleventh grade and kept in touch with friends from Oakwood for the rest of his life. He graduated from Oberlin College, where he actively promoted the ideals and activities of the Democratic Socialists of America. Continuing to support social democracy and workers’ rights, he worked as a lithographer, an editor, and a writer of ten books, many of which are mysteries in a noir mood. Recently his 2010 book Harry was adapted for the stage.

He began attending South Mountain Meeting in Ashland, Ore., as soon as he arrived in Ashland in 2007 and appeared faithfully for Sunday morning worship. He served on the Peace and Social Concerns Committee, the Hospitality Committee, the Joint Committee with Peace House, and as a meetinghouse opener. He was a warm member of the meeting community, always asking Friends how they were. Friends delighted in his big smile and hugs as well as his willingness to take on meeting responsibilities. He was moved by and grateful for Friends’ holding him in the Light during his final months. South Mountain Friends miss him.

Intelligent, committed, kind, and caring, he founded a mystery writers’ group, the Monday Mayhem Writers. At Southern Oregon University’s Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI), he taught several classes on subjects including utopia, the dangers of cults, and other political themes. During the seven years before his death, he and friends hosted a weekly film viewing and discussion group. He was also happy to be part of the Friday Night Poker Boys, men who became close friends and supported him and his partner, Patricia Sempowich, through his final months. He loved natural beauty, the mountains, and the redwoods. He was an adventurous and independent thinker who didn’t suffer fools gladly but who forgave easily and wanted to keep the peace. He had a generous nature, never hesitating to help out or to support an important cause. He maintained many strong connections with friends and family, who were very important to him, and he deeply appreciated the people who took care of him.

Tim was predeceased by one son, Carl Wohlforth. He is survived by his dearly loved partner, Patricia Sempowich; a son, William Wohlforth; a daughter-in-law, Teresa Wohlforth; three grandchildren; and a brother, Eric Wohlforth.