Tim Shock was a quiet, modest and private man whose sudden death last weekend deprives The Hill of one of its hardest-working and most widely respected staff members.

As this newspaper’s assistant editor and in other posts he held since joining us in March, 2003, Tim showed that he thoroughly grasped the importance of accuracy and the intricacies of style. His dedication to syntax, grammar and good usage burnished the reputation of reporters individually and of the newspaper as a whole.

Tim was hired as a page designer and copy editor in March 2003, having previously worked both as a reporter and copy editor at the Indiana Gazette in his home state of Pennsylvania. After joining The Hill, he moved on swiftly to become the paper’s chief proofreader, a job in which he excelled.

He was promoted last September to the post of assistant editor, where in addition to proofreading every piece of copy that the newspaper published, he selected and edited letters to the editor, screened incoming opinion pieces and was The Hill’s main contact with outside columnists.

Despite his mild-mannered nature, Tim would often surprise colleagues with a witty comment and quick laugh. Beyond his job, Tim volunteered for a variety of charitable causes. He edited copy for StreetSense, the newspaper for and about homeless people, and for a newsletter published by Habitat for Humanity. He also worked at a summer camp for traumatized children.

Tim, 36, was the youngest of 11 brothers and sisters. The large family helped him develop an affinity for children, which he never lost; he spent last Thursday with some of his siblings and their many children, joining in the games of the youngest. 

“He especially loved his nieces and nephews,” said Tim’s brother, Larry Shock. “They played a special role in his heart.” 

The family will receive friends between 4-8 p.m. on Thursday at Bence Mihalcik Funeral Home, 965 Philadelphia St., Indiana, PA 15701. Tel: (724) 349-2000. The funeral is scheduled for Friday at 11 a.m., St. Bernard Catholic Church, 200 Clairvaux Drive, Indiana, PA 15701. Tel: (724) 465-2210.  Flowers and cards may be sent to Bence Mihalcik Funeral Home.