Tim Marcum, 65, of Centralia, passed away Thursday, April 30, 2026, at SSM St. Louis University Hospital. He was born on June 14, 1960, in Centralia, the son of Donald and Karen (Hamburg) Marcum. He married the love of his life, Vanessa Tolka, on April 20, 1985, at Bethel Baptist Church in Odin.
Along with his beloved wife of 41 years, Vanessa Marcum of Centralia, survivors that will remember Tim bringing laughter and sunshine to each day include his precious, beautiful daughter, Savanna Chapman and husband Tom of Patoka; extraordinary grandson, Beau Chapman; sister, Kathy Otero and husband OT of Radom; brothers-in-law, Danny Tolka of Odin, Jerry Tolka of California, Terry Tolka and wife Nina of Colorado, and Brian Tolka and wife Jenny of Patoka; many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.
Tim was preceded in death by his mother, Karen Marcum; his father, Donald Marcum; his brother, John Marcum; and his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Hubert and Willadean Tolka.
Tim was one of a kind and everyone instantly was drawn to his charming friendliness and great sense of humor. He was an awesome storyteller, describing with excited passion his most memorable adventures. Tim was genuinely kind, charismatic, a friend you could count on, and the joy of his family.
He definitely brought his “A” game while driving his semi-truck, delivering for McDonald’s out of Lebanon for 33 years. Tim brought sunshine and positivity into the days of every worker on his route. He liked to spend time in the peace of God’s natural creation. Tim looked forward to deer camp each season and wasn’t caught too often without a fishing pole in his hand. He was always ready to host a fish fry, preparing and sharing the great flavors of his freshly caught fish. He was an awesome cook.
Tim was the heart of his family, using his quick wit to tease his daughter, Savanna, all the while making sure she knew how much he loved her. He passed down his talent for fishing to his grandson, Beau, while spending quality time together on his boat. He spoiled his fur baby dog, Sophie, who loved to be by his side. Tim especially loved being Vanessa’s husband and best friend. The two were “in it to win it” together, walking mountain tops and through valleys hand in hand with a love that was rock solid.
Tim was a fierce warrior who battled all life threw his way with resilience, quick to give glory to God for each victory. It is with broken hearts that Tim’s wonderful life is celebrated, but also with an assured hope that the day of rejoicing with him again in Heaven is just around the corner.
There will be no public service. Please share condolences and great memories of Tim with his family by visiting maczfuneralhomes.com and/or the funeral home’s Facebook page.
