Tributes have been paid to Tim Corke, chief operating officer of UK FinTech Token.io, who died after a freak fall.
After doctors told the father-of-five’s devastated family that he wouldn’t survive they agreed that his organs could be donated to save the lives of six strangers.
Last Friday he was able to donate his heart, lungs, kidneys, pancreas and liver in six life-saving operations.
His sister Nicki Martin, founder of Buzzio, said: “Whilst we experienced this tragedy, six families got given a second chance at life.
“This would have meant the world to him, and it certainly does to us. It’s the most comforting thing we have right now.”
Corke, who previously worked at eMerit, Monitise and Bottonline Technologies, joined Token.io in 2020.
Token.io is a leading account-to-account (A2A) payment infrastructure provider and has offices in London and Berlin.
His sister Nicki Martin revealed how her brother suffered catastrophic head injuries in a ‘freak accident’.
“A simple stumble that could have happened to anyone,” she wrote on social media. “His head took the impact.
“We were told last Wednesday (after the most traumatic week by his bedside) that he wouldn’t make it.”
Loved: Tim Corke, COO, Token
She said she hoped her brother’s actions would inspire other people to became organ donors.
“Despite millions of people on the organ donation register, there were only 1,200 successful organ donations last year,” she said. “40 per cent were from the living.
“This is because medical circumstances surrounding death are rarely suitable for organ donation.
“Donations are reduced by a further 50 per cent because donors had not spoken with their families about their wishes.
“Carrying a card is not enough. The final decision lies with the next of kin.
“The decision and process of organ donation at an already traumatic time causes many loved ones to say ‘no’.
“Not only did we know it was the right thing to do, we were also fortunate enough to be certain of Tim’s wishes.
“I hope you never have to go through this, I really do.
Talk to family about organ donation
“But please, please talk to your families about organ donation just in case.
“Tim joins my Mum, who we lost to a brain tumour two years ago. I have two guardian angels now.
“He leaves behind a loving partner and five children – who I’m gonna be the best god damn Auntie to!
“On the same day they lost their Dad, his kids gained a new nephew born to their stepsister.
“That’s three Friday 13th February birthdays in our family now.
“What a surreal day. Words can’t really express everything we are feeling right now.
“If there’s one thing Tim would have wanted, it is for us all to go on to live a meaningful and happy life.
“So that is what we will find a way to do – in his name. I love you Corkie.”
Todd Cylde, CEO of Token.io, said: “Tim embodied competence, compassion, and character in everything he did, making him an exceptional leader, colleague, and friend.
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“I’m deeply grateful for his friendship and for all he did for Token and our team, which he cared for so profoundly. He will be missed immensely.”
A spokesperson for Token.io said: “Tim was an exceptional leader at Token.io and a deeply valued teammate, mentor, and friend to so many of us.
“His calm presence, kind spirit, and sense of humour touched everyone who had the privilege of working with him.
“He cared deeply for his colleagues and took great pride and joy in his family. His impact on our business and on all of us personally cannot be overstated.
“Tim has left a profound mark on Token.io. His loss will be deeply felt by all who knew and had the privilege of working with him, and he will be sorely missed.”
The spokesperson added that his ‘final act of generosity’ in donating his organs was typical of him.
“Tim was someone who cared deeply about others and made a lasting difference, both in his work and far beyond it,” said the spokesperson. “We are lucky to have called him our colleague and friend.
“Tim’s family and friends take comfort knowing that part of Tim lives on. We hope this may encourage others to take a moment to consider organ donation and the legacy it can create.
“If you’d like to learn more about becoming an organ donor, visit your national health service or organ donation registry website for information on how to register and the choices available to you.”
Tributes
Tributes have poured into Corke from all over the world.
Token.io colleague Matt Jackson said: “Tim’s legacy is best demonstrated by how the culture of the company has come together over the last week – he was so instrumental in creating this. Empathy, kindness, professionalism and irreverent fun. I’ll miss you Tim.”
Jess Gerrow, VP marketing at Token.io, added: “Tim modelled what leading from the front looks like.
“Tim was never hesitant to roll up his sleeves, always quick to champion others’ success, and ever ready for a laugh or a chat (especially if the topic was his gorgeous family, or his many animals!)
“Tim was an ally, support, friend and mentor to so many. He was diligent and meticulous, empathetic and fun. A cheerleader, a brilliant mind, and generous in countless ways.”
Monika Liikamaa, CEO of growing Finnish FinTech Enfuce, said: “My deepest condolences to everyone at Token. My thoughts are with Tim’s family, friends, and colleagues.”
Paul Rodgers, chairman of Vendorcom, said: “What heartbreaking news. Over 15 years, I experienced Tim’s energy, insight, positivity, objectivity, warmth, quiet inspiration, encouragement and pragmatism. The payments world has lost an authentic leader who was driving true, market-changing innovation.”
Gary Pine added: “I only have memories of Tim smiling and chuckling with others from our brief time working together at Bottomline. A positive influence on all those around him.”
You can register to be an organ donor here