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John Tonko
Born: 10/1/1939
Died: 2/18/2026
Age: 86
Community: Davison , MI
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TONKO, JOHN – age 86, of Davison, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.
John was born on October 1, 1939, in Virginia, Minnesota, the son of the late John M. and Margaret (Janezich) Tonko. After graduating from Bemidji State University in Minnesota, he moved to the Flint area, where he eventually settled in Davison and raised his family. John dedicated his entire professional career to education, teaching in the Kearsley Community Schools for more than 30 years before retiring. John’s Industrial Arts class at Armstrong Middle School was a favorite of generations of students who have fond memories of making all types of wooden creations from napkin holders to penny hockey games.
In retirement, John remained active and enjoyed spending time with friends. He was an avid golfer and could often be found playing pool or bowling during the off-season. A cold beer shared with his buddies was the perfect complement to these gatherings. He had a deep appreciation for big band music and proudly played the trumpet with the New Horizons Community Band.
John is survived by his children, Sara (Walter) Chase, Margot Hughes (fiancé Tom Lesondak), Peter (Judy) Tonko, and Michael Tonko; and his beloved grandchildren, Samuel Chase, Madeline Chase, Teagan Hughes, Matthew Tonko, and Saffron Tonko.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, James Tonko; and his wife, Ming Tonko.
Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 19, 2026, at Swartz Funeral Home, 1225 W. Hill Road, Flint.
In lieu of flowers, those desiring may make memorial contributions to the Parkinson’s Foundation.
Your condolences may be shared with the family at swartzfuneralhomeinc.com
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| Visitation |
| Date: |
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2/19/2026 |
| Time: |
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4:00 PM |
| Visitation will be held from 4-7pm on Thursday, February 19, 2026, at Swartz Funeral Home, 1225 West Hill Road, Flint. |
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| Funeral Service |
| Date: |
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2/19/2026 |
| Time: |
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4:00 PM |
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| Location: |
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Swartz Funeral Home & Cremation Center
1225 West Hill Road
Flint, MI 48507Get a Map to this location...
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