July 15, 1944 — Dec. 21, 2014

Wayne “Rusty” Harold Tinkham, 70, of Niles, passed away while surrounded by his family at home on Sunday, Dec. 21, 2014.

Rusty was born on July 15, 1944 to the late Maurice and Ruth Tinkham in Dowagiac, Michigan. He was one of three children in the Tinkham household.

After school Rusty wed the love of his life, Carylin Phillips, at a ceremony on December 6, 1969. Rusty liked to go fishing, spend time at the casino, watch stock car races and travel. His love of traveling went well with his job. Rusty was a heavy equipment operator and traveled all across the country working on the pipeline. He retired in 2009 as an inspector on the pipeline. Rusty enjoyed time spent with his family, especially if it involved his grandchildren.

Rusty was preceded in death by his parents and siblings Roger and Lyle Tinkham.

He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Carylin Tinkham; children, Scott (Kristal) Tinkham of Niles, Bobby (Angie) Tinkham of Niles, Wayne Henderson of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Gerald Henderson of Albuquerque, New Mexico and Sherri Duke of Oklahoma City; grandchildren, Bailey, Layne, Shaylin, Mckenna and Noah Tinkham, Jennifer, Kimberly, Ryan, Rachael, and Faith Henderson along with several other grandchildren, extended family members and friends.

Those wishing to make a memorial donation in Rusty’s name may do so to Portage Road General Baptist Church at 1765 Portage Avenue, Niles, MI 49120

In keeping with Rusty’s wishes his family has held a private graveside service and a public dinner will be held on December 26, 2014 at Portage Road General Baptist Church at 5 p.m.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Brown Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Niles.