Edward H. Tonkin

Edward Hobart Tonkin, age 66, passed away on Monday, July 29, 2024 at St. Vincent Hospital in Erie, PA, surrounded by his family. 

He was born in Bayside, Queens, NYC on July 9, 1958, the son of Edward William Tonkin and Hazel Adele Tonkin. He was a graduate of Daycroft High School, and received his degree in History from Hillsdale College. 

Edward is survived by his wife, Deborah A. Tonkin, with whom he shared 37 marvelous years together; their three children, son, Edward “Ted” H. Tonkin, daughter Virginia “Ginny” K. Tonkin, and son, Collier W. Tonkin. 

Edward was a hilarious, warm man who sought to build community wherever he went. He loved history, cooking, and most of all, his family, into whom he poured all his love and affection. 

Ed was a jack of all trades, having a varied career across banking, education, administration, and sales. He loved volunteering for his community, including the First Church of Christ Scientist, Millcreek, and the Brig Niagara. During the pandemic, when faced with a pause in volunteering activities, he created the affectionately named, FMBBC, “Friday Morning Beach Breakfast Club,” a place where the volunteers could gather on the beach, drink coffee, and commune together. 

Friends may call at the Burton Quinn Scott Cremation and Funeral Services, West Ridge 3801 W. 26th Street on Saturday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at 11:00 a.m.

Memorial donations can be made to the Jefferson Educational Society in Ed’s name at 3207 State Street, Erie, PA 16508.

Send condolences at www.BurtonQuinnScott.com