Joseph Rudolph Tonko, 78, longtime resident of the Iron Range, passed away on November 14, 2024, at Bethesda East Hospital in Boynton Beach, FL, surrounded by his loving family.

He was born September 23, 1946 in Eveleth, Minnesota to Joseph and Jennie (Stornick) Tonko. He attended public school in Eveleth, MN and graduated from the University of Minnesota Duluth with a degree in Education. Joe dedicated over 30 years to teaching in the St. Louis County School District (Cherry, Cotton, Meadowlands, Orr, Cook, and Tower). United in marriage on September 6, 1968 with Suzanne Maki, Joe and Sue made their home in Chisholm where they would raise their family before moving to Lake Vermilion, Mountain Iron, and eventually ending up in Boynton Beach, FL. Joe was known for his deep love of the outdoors, his involvement in the Iron Range Retriever Club, his love of dogs, and his unwavering dedication to his family. His warmth, kindness, and passion for life touched the hearts of everyone who knew him.

He is survived by his wife, Sue; his sons, Jon (Amy) Tonko of Boynton Beach, FL, and Chris Tonko (Gretchen Moe) of Mt. Iron, MN; his granddaughters, Megan Tonko, Boynton Beach, FL and Hailey Kostanko, Virginia, MN; brother-in-law Jon Timpane, Hibbing, MN;  sister-in-law Geri Maki, Milwaukee, WI; nephews, Trevor (Keisha) Timpane, Rochester, MN and Erik (Haley) Timpane, Lakeville, MN;  niece Paula (Josh) Manzo, Mequon, WI;  great-nieces and nephews, Addy, Benny, Teddi, Ava and MJ Timpane; and beloved pups Lola and Hope.

Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Jennie Tonko and his sister, Mary Lynn Timpane.

A celebration of Joe's life will be held next summer in Minnesota. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to animal rescue and hospice charities in his memory.

We take solace in knowing that Joe is now at peace, reunited with loved ones and his many pups who have gone before him. His memory will forever be a source of comfort to all who knew him.