Timothy Francis Vrtiska Md

Timothy passed away unexpectedly at the age of 72. He was born in St. Cloud, Minn., to Frank L. Vrtiska, MD and Nina Vrtiska. Their family moved to Corvallis, Ore., when Tim was 5 years old.

He completed elementary and high school years in Corvallis, where he then attended Oregon State University, graduating with honors. He earned his M.D. degree at Oregon Health and Sciences University and interned at Highland General Hospital in Oakland, Calif. Tim completed his Residency in Ophthalmology at OHSU- Casey Eye Institute.

He joined Lower Columbia Eye Clinic in Longview in 1981. Not only did Tim provide excellent care for his patients, but he also truly valued learning from them and their interests. Each patient Tim treated was special and received his expert care and concern.

Tim enjoyed following professional sports, especially basketball, baseball and tennis. His biggest thrill was watching his “grand-girls” compete in soccer and basketball. He truly loved spending time with his wife, family and friends.

He is survived by his loving wife of 26 years, Debbie; two sons, Joe (Jenny), and Alex (Ashley); his bonus children, Rob Watkins, and Nicole Carter (Brandon); a brother, Stephen (Janine); six grandchildren; and numerous nieces and a nephew.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Frank Vrtiska MD and Nina Vrtiska; and a sister, Roxanne.

All are invited to honor Tim at 2 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 10 at Longview Community Church, 2323 Washington Way.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Humane Society of Cowlitz County Building Fund, P.O. Box 172, Longview, WA, 98632.