A devoted paramedic has died on duty after suffering a cardiac arrest, leaving behind his wife of 30 years, twin brother and family.
Tim Sands, who was based at Skegness Ambulance Station and served with East Midlands Ambulance Service, died on Friday (23 Oct).
He was remembered as a dedicated colleague and family man who spent nearly 40 years helping others, as reported by Need To Know
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His niece, Heather Webster, paid tribute to him, saying: “Uncle Tim, you dedicated nearly 40 years of your life to serving others as a paramedic.
“You were an incredible man, a devoted family man, and someone we will always be so proud of.
“Your dedication, kindness, and the lives you touched will never be forgotten. You leave behind a legacy of love, service, and compassion that will live on for generations to come.
“Rest peacefully, Uncle Tim.
“You will be forever loved, forever missed, and never forgotten.”
Colleagues at Skegness Ambulance Station also shared their sadness at his sudden death, paying tribute to his years of service to the local community and wider Lincolnshire area.
In a statement, they said Tim had helped deliver babies, performed CPR and responded to emergencies throughout his career, making a difference to countless lives.
They added: “Behind every call was a person who needed help, a family in need of reassurance, or a life that needed saving and often a cat that needed fussing too.
“Tim was there for so many of them, and the impact he made will live on in the countless people whose lives he touched, helped, and saved.
“Tim, you will be deeply missed, never forgotten, and always remembered with gratitude and affection.
“Our thoughts are with Dawn, his family, friends, and everyone who is feeling the pain of his loss at this incredibly difficult time.
“Rest easy, Tim.
“Your shift is done.
“Thank you for everything you gave.
“You made a difference, and you always will.”
A fundraiser has also been launched to support his wife, Dawn, and son, Luke, with money intended to help cover funeral costs and essential bills.
The appeal said Tim had shared 30 years with Dawn and was a treasured grandfather to Blake.
He was also a much-loved twin to Chris and brother to Jim, Sarah and Liz.
The fundraiser said: “Tim dedicated nearly 40 years of his life to serving others as a paramedic, caring for people in their most vulnerable moments and making a difference to countless lives.
“Helping others was a huge part of who he was, and this continued even after his passing.”
It also highlighted his love of animals, particularly cats, and revealed that he had donated his organs in a final act of generosity.
The appeal added: “After spending so many years caring for others, he continued to make a difference right until the very end.”
At the time of writing, the fundraiser had raised nearly £2,700.
It concluded: “Tim Sands – forever loved, forever missed, and forever in our hearts.”
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