Obituary of Timothy John Kavanagh

It is with profound sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Timothy John Kavanagh on July 4th, 2026, after facing cancer with immense strength and courage.  He was predeceased by his parents, Anne and Leonard Kavanagh, and his sister, Elizabeth Wilson. Tim was the beloved husband and soulmate of Lynn-Marie (nee Zavitski).

He was the loving and supportive father of Murray (Tamara and Andre), Amanda (Adam), and Jessie; and the cherished "Grandpaw" of Ingrid, Arlo, Logan, and Jacob. He was the proud uncle of Robin, Sarah (Kyle), and Courtney (Michael). Tim will be missed by longtime friend, confidant, and brother-in-law Cory Wilson (Shannon). He is also survived by his brothers-in-law, Droughn Zavitski (Denise) and John Zavitski (Lisa). He leaves behind his best friend, Ole Jensen (Julie). 

Tim led a colourful and full life. An avid drag racer for over 50 years, he spent most of his time racing at Luskville Dragway, where he was crowned the 1998 Super Pro Points Champion. In 1990, Tim started South Gower Truck Repair, growing it into a successful and trusted shop for many businesses across the Ottawa-Carleton and Leeds-Grenville areas. In all things Tim exemplified loyalty, passion and a fierce work ethic ensuring his racing community and long standing clients knew he would deliver on his promises. 

When Tim retired and sold the business in 2012, he and Lynn set off on an adventure, moving to Victoria, B.C., where they both started their second careers. Tim continued in the diesel repair industry at Wilson & Proctor, where he mentored numerous young apprentices and formed deep friendships with Sam Buston and Mike Tavish. 

While living on the Island, Tim and Lynn connected deeply with their Western family, including his Aunt Helene and cousin Darlene (Randy and Olivia Thoen). Welcomed as a loved nephew and cousin, Tim became an active part of their community. Many wonderful times were shared at the Port Alberni Rugby Club supporting the local teams. 

In 2020, Tim and Lynn moved back to Prescott, Ontario, to be closer to their four grandchildren. There, Tim became a valued volunteer at the Prescott Legion, serving as bar steward and handyman  until recently. 

Throughout their shared life together, Tim and Lynn continued their many adventures, travelling north, south, and across Europe creating memories and cherishing one another as best friends and soulmates.

A Funeral Service will be held at St. Laurence O'Toole Roman Catholic Church (50 Centre St, Spencerville, ON, K0E 1X0) on Wednesday, July 8th, 2026 at 11:00 am.  

As expressions of sympathy and in honour of Tim's dedicated service as a volunteer, memorial donations made to the Royal Canadian Legion, Fort Wellington Branch 97 (141 Henry St W, Prescott, ON, K0E 1T0) would be deeply appreciated by the family.