Obituary of Timothy Joseph Rainey

Timothy (Tim) Joseph Rainey, 49, of Scotts Valley passed away unexpectedly on January 14. Tim was born on May 24, 1968, in Downey, California and lived in West Covina before moving to Scotts Valley in 1974. Tim graduated from Harbor High School in 1986, studied at Cabrillo College and became a Respiratory Therapist in 1993. Tim is survived by his wife Amornrat (Noi) of Thailand; beloved daughters Alexandra Rainey of Isla Vista and Felicia Rainey of West Linn; mother Claragene Rainey of Scotts Valley; sister Kelly Rainey of Aptos; brother Patrick (Sharyn) Rainey of Rocklin; nephews Brian, Connor and Aidan of Rocklin and numerous extended family members and friends. Tim was preceded in death by his father Gerald Rainey. Tim worked as a Respiratory Therapist for 25 years, and he was an incredibly kind, loyal, generous, talented, resourceful and gregarious person, who never met a stranger. He enjoyed life long friends, gardening, fishing, hunting, boating, water skiing and camping off the grid in places like Hell Hole. Tim often traveled to Mexico and Thailand, where he scuba dived and hung with the locals, and he dreamed of retiring at the beach where he could relax in a hammock and fish all day. Most of all, though, Tim was an amazing chef and BBQer. These were his favorite pastimes. He loved to host BBQs and camping trips, where he would grill chicken, sausages, burgers, hot dogs and tri-tip to perfection, and he would cook dishes native to the places he visited or create his own unusual dishes. He was at his happiest when he was spending time with close friends and family, and he will be remembered for his kindness, hospitality and warmth. He will be missed forever and leaves a giant hole in everyone's heart that knew and loved him. Family and friends are invited to a Memorial Service honoring Tim's life at Santa Cruz Memorial Oakwood Chapel, 3301 Paul Sweet Road, Santa Cruz, on Saturday, January 27 at 1:00 pm. Reception immediately following. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Tim's name to the Santa Cruz SPCA, Blue Marine Foundation or any other marine conservation foundation.