Joseph Anthony Tonasket Jr.

Born Friday, August 25th, 1939 in Nespelem to Joseph A. Sr. and Mary Covington-Tonasket, JR graduated from High School in Curlew, WA where he was a member of the Curlew Cougars track and boxing teams.

Always active, to say that JR loved sports would be an understatement! He ran in multiple marathons including Spokane’s Bloomsday Run as long as he was able, loved basketball – participating in “Hoopfest” for several years, playing in softball tournaments and Bull Riding.

JR also enjoyed hunting, berry picking, going to county fairs throughout Central Washington and traveling to Montana and Arizona with his wife Marie James, whom JR married on Monday, December 30, 2002 at the Hitch’n Post in Coeur de Lane, Idaho.

JR is predeceased by both of his parents; grandson: Jesse James Tonasket-Ishitani; brothers: Lawrence “Frenchie” Tonasket, William Tonasket, Randy Tonasket and Richard Tonasket and sister: Marilyn Tonasket.

JR’s proud legacy lives on through his devoted wife of nineteen years: Marie James; children: Krystal Tonasket, Roberta Williams (Ernie), Jon Tonasket, Don Tonasket, Tony Tonasket (Renae), Shawna Chenoweth (Lance Packwood) and Timmy Finley; numerous Grandchildren; siblings: Bob Tonasket (Lynda), David Tonasket, Lucille Tonasket, Anita Tonasket, Tina Kempf (Jay), Patty Hix and Sherry Johnson (Chuck); as well as many Nephews, Nieces and Cousins.

A family dressing was held at 2:00pm, Tuesday, October 18th, 2022 at Strate Funeral Home of Grand Coulee, Washington. JR’s Rosary and Wake was held that evening at 7:00pm in the Community Center in Keller, Washington. His funeral was at 10:00am on Wednesday, October 19th, 2022, also at the Keller Community Center. Joseph was then laid to rest in the San Poil Cemetery in Keller, Washington

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at http://www.stratefuneral.com for the Tonasket family. STRATE FUNERAL HOME, Grand Coulee, Washington is caring for the family.