Timothy Joseph Krpalek

Timothy Joseph Krpalek, age 65, of Roanoke, Virginia, formerly of Nelson County, passed away on December 18, 2025. He was the beloved son of the late John Frank Krpalek and Edith Lucille Stellmacher.

Timothy was born on January 25, 1960, in Albany, Oregon. He attended West Albany High School before pursuing a distinguished career in the United States Navy. Timothy proudly served for 21 years, from 1978 to 1999, retiring as a Chief Petty Officer (CPO). While serving, he earned his Bachelor of Science degree from Southern Illinois University.

Throughout his naval career, Timothy completed multiple tours and missions, including service during the Gulf War, Operation Desert Shield, and Operation Desert Storm. His final duty assignment was with Beachmasters Unit Two in Little Creek, Virginia, before his retirement in 1999. Timothy received numerous awards and commendations, including the Battle “E” Award, Armed Forces Service Medal, Kuwait Liberation Medal (Saudi Arabia), Kuwait Liberation Medal (Kuwait), Sea Service Deployment Ribbon (7th Award), Good Conduct Medal (5th Award), Enlisted Surface Warfare Specialist designation, M16 Rifle Expert Medal, Master-at-Arms qualification, and many others. He was deeply proud of his Navy service and the lifelong bond he shared with his Navy family.

Following his Honorable discharge and retirement from the Navy, Timothy began a second career with Target, serving as a Facility Operations Manager. After retiring from Target, he founded Tim’s Veterans Home Improvement Service, combining his skills with his heart for helping others. During this time, he traveled throughout the United States, visiting his children and many grandchildren, and spending cherished time with family back in Oregon.

Timothy’s strength was rooted in his unwavering and deep faith in Christ, which shaped the man, husband, father, and servant he was. He was especially proud that, while serving overseas, he was baptized in the Jordan River—an experience that held profound spiritual significance for him.

In his free time, Timothy loved fishing adventures, hunting, camping with his family, traveling both across the United States and abroad, and enjoying nearly anything outdoors. He also found great joy in woodworking in his shop and was exceptionally skilled at hands-on projects and problem-solving.

Timothy is survived by his children: Angella Thompson, Krystal Leanne Torres (Eduardo Torres), John Edward Krpalek (Bridget Krpalek) and a stepson he loved as his own, Daniel Trevino. He was a proud grandfather to Alyssa Lewis, Ethan Thompson, Kiersten Thompson, and the late Ryan Floyd Eugene Lewis (children of Angella Thompson); Cayden Torres, Cameron Torres, Colton Torres, Macey Torres, and Avery Torres (children of Krystal Torres); and Gage Krpalek (son of John Krpalek).

He is also survived by his brothers, Greg Krpalek (Mary Krpalek) and William “Bill” Krpalek (Hedy Krpalek); nieces Linda Mespelt-Sheffield and Christie Mespelt-Ferguson; best friend and best man, Jeff Kirkman, and his wife, Connie; as well as cousins and many other dear relatives and friends. Timothy was preceded in death by his loving sisters, Judy Mespelt (Krpalek) and Suzanne “Suzy” Black.

A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date, as many family members reside out of state. A formal service and burial at Arlington National Cemetery will also be held at a later time.

Timothy was not only a proud veteran, but also a dedicated supporter of Wounded Warrior Project. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his honor to the Wounded Warrior Project.

Tharp Funeral Home of Roanoke is assisting the family. Condolences may be shared at www.tharpfuneralhome.com.