Richard E. Tonkel

Richard E. Tonkel, age 84, died on November 25, 2015, at Ashton Creek Rehabilitation Center in Fort Wayne.  Mr. Tonkel was born on October 10, 1931 in Fort Wayne to the late Ray Tonkel and Gladys (Hippenhammer) Tonkel.  He graduated from Northside High School, where he played football and other sports.  Richard honorably served the United States Army during the Korean War.  He was a general contractor and owned and operated Tonkel Contruction for over 30 years.  Richard was a member of the American Legion Post #409 in Leo where he held several executive offices.  Richard’s favorite accomplishment was when he became Indiana State Commander of the Department of the American Legion in 2000.  He was also awarded the Sagamore of the Wabash by Governor Frank O’Bannon.  His love for sports never ceased and he coached the American Legion baseball team for several years. 

Survivors Include:

Son, Vaughn Jay and Laurette Tonkel of Fort Wayne.

Son, Stephen and Rebecca Tonkel of Albion.

Son, Mick and Trudy Tonkel of Upton, Wyoming.

Son, Mark Tonkel of Harlan.

10 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren.

Sister, Anna Jane Hoot of Fort Wayne.

Richard was also preceded in death by his wife, Annabelle (McMillen) Tonkel and by many brothers and sisters.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, December 2, 2015 from 3:00pm-9:00pm at American Legion Post #409 in Leo, Indiana.

Funeral Services will be on Thursday, December 3, 2015 at 11:00am at American Legion Post #409 in Leo, Indiana.

Burial will be at Leo Cemetery in Leo, Indiana following the funeral service.

Officiating the funeral service will be Pastor Scott Davis.

Memorial Contributions may be directed to American Legion Post #409.

Send a condolence to the family of Richards at www.northernindianafuneralcare.com or find us on www.facebook.com

Arrangements entrusted to Northern Indiana Funeral Care of Fort Wayne.

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