Christopher B. Tolonen, age 55, peacefully passed away on Thursday May 25, 2023. He was born on January 25, 1968, to parents Leslie and Sandra (Haynes) in Cincinnati, Ohio.
Chris lived a simple life communing with nature. Camping, hiking, kayaking, repelling down steep cliffs, and spending time around his pond watching the fish, frogs, and toads. One of his favorite pastimes was watching the little red squirrels in the yard protect their territory and argue with the much larger grey squirrels.
Chris proudly served his country in the United States Army (stationed in Germany) and afterwards participated in military funeral honors for fellow fallen veterans. He exemplified the best of us, a ray of sunshine with an infectious laugh and fun-loving spirit. A generous soul, he freely gave his all to family and friends. Chris was a self-taught coppersmith. Over the years he crafted beautiful and unique window and yard art, candlesticks and candle snuffers, picture frames, and incredible soul locks. Now his sweet soul has returned to his Creator.
Chris is survived by his beloved family - mother Sandy Tolonen, siblings Dawn Marie (Dale), Anthony, Leslie (Tabitha), Joseph, and Noah Tolonen; his lifelong best friends and adventure partners Catherine Boie and Joe (Jenny) Voss; uncle Kenny (Noreen) Tolonen and great-uncle Larry Mettner; cherished nieces and nephew Jessica Pendergrass, Fenwood and Lake Tolonen; loving great-niece and nephews Mackenzie and Carter Pendergrass, and Remington Freeman; step-nephew and niece Ryan and Ashley Podracky; step-great-nephews Blaik Podracky and Jayden Richards; and his faithful companion Sassy.
Chris was preceded in death by his father Leslie R. Tolonen.
A celebration of Christopher's life will be held at Newcomer Funeral Home, 820 Miamisburg-Centerville Road Dayton, OH on Monday June 5, 2023 from 5 to 7 pm. Interment will take place at the Dayton National Cemetery, 4400 West Third Street Dayton, OH on Tuesday June 6, 2023 at 9 am. Services at the Dayton National Cemetery will be held in Shelter B. Please meet in Waiting Area B, 15 minutes prior to the service. To share a memory of Chris or to leave a special message for his family, please click the "Share Memories" button.