Timothy Ross Flatness passed away in his home in Rochester, MN on Saturday, October 24th. He was born on July 30th, 1958 to parents Dale and Jean (Hendrikson) Flatness at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital in Mason City, IA. Tim grew up in Northwood, attending Northwood-Kensett High School where he excelled in wrestling. In 1980 he married Nancy Ullestad; they would later divorce in 1995.
While Tim lived in many places throughout his life, Northwood was always home and a source of lifelong memories. Some of his favorite childhood experiences included fishing in Swensrud Park, Andy’s Pond, and Kuenan’s Quarry. He also enjoyed walking the railroad tracks with friends on the way to swim in the quarry. When his sons reached school age, he returned to Northwood to raise them surrounded by family.
Tim held many jobs during his career, but he often spoke of his time as a seafood sales rep, where he got to travel around the area, mingle with new people, and provide shrimp cocktails to his boys as an after-school snack. Most of all, he spoke fondly of his time in underground fiber construction, working alongside his life-long best friend.
Tim preferred to live life on his own terms: part wanderer, part entertainer, and full-time lover of a good time. He never needed much to be happy, just great music, a classic VHS movie, a cold drink, and good company. He loved to tell countless stories of his past experiences and escapades involving his closest friends. Those stories will continue to live on in the memories of family and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Dale and Jean Flatness; his brother, Gary Flatness; and his sister-in-law, Brenda Flatness.
He is survived by his sons, Scott (Alicia Campbell) Flatness of Rochester, Minnesota, and Tony (Victoria Hites) Flatness of Oronoco, Minnesota, who are expecting their first son; and his brother, Curt Flatness of Gardnerville, Nevada.
In accordance with his wishes, no public funeral services will be held.
Memories and condolences of Tim may be shared at rochestercremationservicesmn.com
