Donald E. Tonkin

Donald E. Tonkin, 89, passed away on April 28, 2021 after a brave fight with Alzhiemer’s.

Don received his bachelor’s degree from Glassboro State College (now Rowan University) and his Master’s degree from Montclair State College.  He was an elementary teacher for many years, most recently in the East Brunswick Public School system.  After retiring from teaching, he worked at Cooke College, Rutgers University for several years in the greenhouses.  After leaving there, he and his wife Barbara started a wholesale greenhouse business.  He was an avid gardener and loved working with plants of all kinds.  He also bred and showed English Cocker Spaniels.  An avid music lover, Don attended many concerts over the years, including season tickets every year to the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra, which he attended with his wife, and later with his daughter Pat.

Predeceased by his wife, Barbara, in 2016, he is survived by his son Greg and his wife Janet, his granddaughter Danielle Marshall, and his daughter Pat and her husband Bill.  He also is survived by his brothers Harold, George and Richard. 

Don was loved by all who knew him – always cheerful and happy, and always joking around, never complaining.

Donations honoring Don's memory can be made to St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, 505 Main Street, Spotswood, NJ 08884

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