TimTotten 

Aug. 22, 1975 – May 11, 2026

Timothy Brian Totten could take an idea that sounded impossible and somehow turn it into something that brought an entire community together.

For years, Tim poured his creativity, energy and heart into Lake County, becoming known as a connector, storyteller, mentor and champion for causes that made a difference in the lives of others.

One of his most recognizable projects was the Amazing Race for Charity, which transformed fundraising into a community-wide experience. Instead of asking nonprofits to hold countless small fundraisers on their own, Tim envisioned an event where organizations worked together and shared the proceeds. Over the years, the race raised nearly $300,000 for local charities before Tim turned it over to the City of Eustis to continue the event. Most recently, they renamed it the Tim Totten Amazing Race for Charity. 

Tim brought that same big-picture thinking to TEDxEustis, helping bring the internationally recognized TEDx platform to a small Central Florida community. For years, Tim worked behind the scenes coaching speakers, developing ideas and helping people find the confidence to share their stories.

Longtime friend and collaborator Byron Faudie says Tim had a simple approach when someone brought him a challenge.

“Tim would always just say yes and then figure it out later,” Byron says. “Then figure out how to make it great.” 

Tim repeatedly displayed that attitude.

When COVID-19 stripped Lake County seniors of traditional graduation celebrations in 2020, Tim organized a project to create and donate banners recognizing every public high school senior in the county — more than 3,000 students and roughly $75,000 worth of banners. He also created the Lake County Mask Creators group to help connect volunteers making masks with frontline workers who needed them.

His community work extended to programs honoring veterans, mentoring others and countless projects that often began with someone simply asking him for help.

Outside those efforts, Tim had a lifelong passion for architect Frank Lloyd Wright. What began as a childhood fascination grew into decades of study, travel, tours and talks that allowed him to share Wright’s architecture with others.

Those closest to Tim say his real gift was not simply creating projects. It was bringing people together.

“Tim really brought out the best in everyone,” Byron says. “He would always take the time to teach. He would always take the time to collaborate.” 

Tim died May 11 at age 50 after heart complications and a courageous battle with cancer, leaving behind a community filled with people, programs and ideas made stronger because he chose to say yes.