I'm not defending those who timed anyone out with a vacation setting in place (Brother Edwin and I are playing now), but just wanted to point out that a lot of folks list their time-out opinions in their profile. Some folks will timeout Clan matches and Tourney's ASAP, while waiting on other games.
You all did the right thing, putting up a vacation notice and indicating return time and letting people know, beyond that - there's really nothing you can do.... except maybe challenge those players again and win one!