Obituary of Timothy Scott Held

Sing joyfully to God, all the earth: serve the Lord with gladness. Come in before his presence with exceeding great joy.  

Timothy Scott Held was born at Mercy Hospital in Monroe, Michigan on December 14, 1963.  He was the oldest of three children born to the union of Gerald Ernest Held and Donna Faye (Hodge) Held.  He was baptized and confirmed at Grace Lutheran Church.  He attended Monroe High School, graduating with the Class of 1982.   

On October 6, 1987, Tim enlisted in the United States Marine Corps.  He served his country proudly and honorably, as a Private First Class.  He worked as a Bulk Fuel Specialist earning his Rifle Badge as a Sharpshooter and Sea Service Deployment Ribbon.  He was discharged on August 27, 1990, later becoming a member of the American Legion. 

Tim returned home to Monroe, devoted to his family and the family’s business, Monroe Sport’s Center.  A phenomenal bowler, he spent time on the PBA Tour, and it was said that his release was the most powerful and yet smooth some had ever seen.   

Tim worked as a Chef for Ernie’s Place later known as Mugsy’s for decades.  Not much made him happier than serving others, knowing that food brought people together.  Although he owned dozens of cookbooks and even kept recipes in his wallet, he rarely followed the directions. Instead preparing most dishes from memory and by taste.  His food was craved by diners and his wild game was like no other.  His devotion to his craft was evident as he returned to the line a day after back surgery to cook for his favorite customers. 

Tim had a heart of gold.  He was generous with all he had. He loved children but was especially blessed with two of his own, Ali and Hunter and later became the guardian and father figure to Sayde Smith.  At work, Tim treated everyone like family and catered to the smallest guests in any way that he could.  He took youth bowlers on an epic trip to a Wisconsin tournament, often carried on with lengthy and in-depth conversations making them feel like the star of the show, and spoiled the young guests with toys from the machine or decadent desserts.  Papa Tim was adored by his grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.   

Tim was also an avid outdoorsman.  He loved to hunt and fish and enjoyed making and sharing these memories with his children teaching them how to shoot with a bow and rifle.  He even loved traditional archery and using a long bow.  The family cabin near Alpena was a favorite destination for several generations of Held Family members.  He enjoyed worshipping at Monroe Full Gospel. 

Timothy Scott Held, age 60 of Monroe passed away unexpectedly at his home on Friday; October 18, 2024.  His passing was preceded by a beloved niece: Heather Newkirk in 2005.  To cherish his memory, he leaves two children: Alicia Marie "Ali" Held (Tyler Duvall-Ford) of Temperance and Hunter Held (Natalie Danielle Thompson) of Monroe; his loving parents: Gerald and Donna Held of Monroe; a sister: Sheri Held-Nunn (Larry Nunn) of Monroe; a brother: Shane (Kristin) Held of Monroe; five grandchildren: Brynlee Wilson, Macey Wilson, Dawson Duvall-Ford, Brodie Duvall-Ford, and Hayden Duvall-Ford; two nephews: Dylan (Emily) Held and P.J. (Nikita) Newkirk; and several great nieces and nephews. 

Friends may gather from 2:00pm until 8:00pm on Tuesday; October 22, 2024, at Merkle Funeral Service, South Monroe; 14567 South Dixie Highway, Monroe, Michigan 48161 (734) 241-7070.  He will lie in state from 10:00am until 11:00am on Wednesday; October 23, 2024, at Monroe Full Gospel Church; 5337 East Albain Road, Monroe, Michigan 48161.  A Celebration of His Life will take place at 11:00am with Reverend Harold Raines pastor of the church officiating.  Procession will follow to Roselawn Memorial Park in LaSalle for burial where graveside services will be under the auspices of Monroe VFW Post 1138. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Tunnels to Towers or Wounded Warriors Project. Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort or share a photo by visiting www.merklefs.com.