Born: 04/28/1956
New York City, New York
Died: 06/23/2026
Cincinnati, Ohio
Details of service:
A private service will be held at a later date.
On Tuesday evening June 23, 2026, Timothy Michael Kane peacefully died.
Born to Thomas and Judith Kane in New York City on April 28,1956, Tim spent his childhood in the surrounding New York suburbs before moving to East Hardwick, Vermont as a teen. He became a master craftsman in the traditional sense of the word.
Wherever he lived, Tim established his ‘shop’ beginning in Vermont and ending in Cincinnati’s Over-the-Rhine neighborhood with his company, Vulkane. Tim could often be found there, deep in thought and experimenting with a wide range of materials and machines. As he often noted: “I just love making things!”
Tim’s first real job, recreating old-fashioned split-rail fences, began in New Harmony, Indiana alongside his father who was leading the restoration. This experience launched his career. Returning to Vermont and then New York, he mastered the art of making unique rustic furniture and follies, a craft he refined and enjoyed throughout his lifetime. His eclectic knowledge that blended construction with artistry landed him a stint at Warhol’s Factory, post-Andy.
In 1997 Tim left the East Coast, accompanying his wife back to her hometown of Cincinnati where he went on to beautify the city. Quickly realizing a niche, Tim expanded his knowledge of metalworking and his company, Vulkane, was born in his East Walnut Hills garage thanks to patient neighbors. Park benches, stylized signage, elegant cabinetry, unique hardware, elaborate gates and sophisticated restaurant decor were all part of his repertoire. Tim built customized lobby lighting for the Contemporary Art Center, added innovative metalwork to the University of Cincinnati’s campus, and reworked the bridge at the Krohn Conservatory.
If a client could imagine it, Tim could make it. His creativity and artistic mastery knew no bounds. Beyond Cincinnati, Tim fabricated the monumental metal trees of artist R. Paine, now scattered on lawns across the country including St. Louis Museum of Art, the University of Nebraska and the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden in Washington D.C.
Renowned for his dry wit, Tim’s sense of humor delighted those who knew him. An unassuming, good-hearted person, Tim was loved by many. He was also a demanding perfectionist at work, cultivating the admiration of numerous employees.
Above all, Tim was a loving husband who reveled in fatherhood. He was always available whether helping with homework, teaching a novice to drive or simply goofing around with his magical sense of adventure and fun. The kids traveled the world with this seasoned globe-trotter, not to mention many a Saturday morning spent roaming hardware stores with Dad.
Sadly, Tim leaves his grieving wife, Suki Skidmore, and beloved children Carter Mills (Gracie Sherk) and Stewart Kane Guderian (Bret) along with his grandchildren Lula and Cam Guderian. He was proceeded in death by his elder brother and lifelong fishing partner, Chris Kane (Eve Oyer). Younger siblings, Pat Kane (Anne Galloway), Barnabas Kane (Margaret), and Rachel Kane survive him, as well as in-laws, David Skidmore (Kristin) and Melissa Cowan (Grant). Tim captured the hearts of numerous nephews and nieces.
An enamored dog lover, in the end Tim talked with great enthusiasm about reuniting with his five rescue dogs, but he left behind devoted Cricket and Henry who remained by his side during his final hours.
Oh, Tim Kane, you will be missed! Your spirit hovers above your favorite fishing spot along the Brush Creek where you watched the bald eagles soar and beavers build their dams. Given your personality, there is no doubt those heavenly gates will never squeak again. Here’s to a life well-lived!
Memorial contributions can be made to:
Save the Animals
4011 Red Bank Road
Cincinnati Ohio 45227
or a charity of one’s choice.
