In Loving Memory of Timothy Barten Forever Loved • Forever Remembered Joliet, Illinois
The Joliet community is mourning the loss of 48-year-old Timothy Barten, whose life ended tragically in the early hours of Saturday morning. Timothy was identified by Will County Coroner Laurie Summers after he passed away following a collision involving his ATV on Interstate 55 near Black Road. He was pronounced deceased at approximately 5:30 a.m. along the southbound lanes of I-55 at mile marker 235 in Troy Township.
The events of that night remain under investigation by the Illinois State Police, who continue to gather information to fully understand the circumstances surrounding the crash. An autopsy was performed Sunday, and officials will determine the final cause and manner of death upon completion of the full autopsy, police findings, and toxicology reports. While the details continue to unfold, what remains clear is the profound loss felt by all who knew Timothy.
Timothy was more than this moment.
He was a son, a father, a brother, a friend, and a familiar presence in Joliet.
He was someone who had lived, laughed, struggled, grown, and loved.
Those closest to him remember Timothy as a person with a strong spirit and a loyal heart. He had a way of leaving an impression—whether through stories shared, help given, or connections formed. He was the kind of person people recognized, the kind of person whose name was spoken with familiarity and affection, the kind of person who was woven into the fabric of everyday life.
Life is not defined by one moment, one decision, or one night.
Life is defined by the love a person gives, the impact they leave behind, and the memories held by those whose lives they touched.
Timothy’s story includes moments of joy, of challenge, of laughter, of learning—and these are what his loved ones hold close now. His passing has created a space of deep sadness, one felt by family, friends, neighbors, and all who crossed paths with him.
As we remember Timothy, we honor:
- His humanity—the fullness of who he was, not just the ending of his story
- His relationships—those he cared for and who cared deeply for him
- His presence—the way he showed up, lived, and mattered
- His memory—which will not fade, but live on in those who loved him
To Timothy’s family and those grieving this loss: May you find comfort in the love that surrounds you. May you feel the support of the community standing beside you.
May the memories of Timothy—his voice, his laughter, his presence—bring both strength and peace in time.
To Timothy: Your journey continues in the hearts of those who love you.
Your story remains. Your memory will not be forgotten. Rest peacefully, Timothy. Gone from sight, but never gone from the hearts that carry your name.
