Marjorie June Tonkin

Marjorie June Tonkin (Machin), 97, Council Grove, Kansas passed away November 30, 2015 at Diversicare of Council Grove.

She was born June 11, 1918 in Russell, Kansas the daughter of Ralph and Ruth (Muck) Machin.  When Marjorie was 4 years of age the Machin Family moved to Council Grove.  Upon graduating from Council Grove High School, she attended Kansas University and graduated with degrees in Geology and Psychology.

On September 22, 1941, she married John W. Tonkin. She moved to Kansas City and worked at Phillip Petroleum while John served in the Army Air Corp during WWII.  After the war, Marjorie worked alongside her husband while they managed several nurseries in Kansas, Connecticut, and Arkansas before retiring at the Council Grove City Lake in 1988.

Upon retiring she remained active at the Council Grove County Club, American Legion Auxiliary, and many service clubs.  Marjorie will be remembered by her great love for animals, especially her poodles, and was an avid KU Basketball fan.

Preceding Marjorie in passing are husband John in 1998, brother, Donald Machin, Council Grove, and sister, Lois Ewalt of Huntsville, AL.  She is survived by many friends, nieces, and nephews.

Although John and Marj never had children of their own, they were accepted parents and grandparents of many who considered them their family.

At Marjorie’s  request, she was cremated.  A graveside service will be at 11:00am, Friday, December 4th at Greenwood Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to Council Grove Senior Center, in care of Zeiner Funeral Home, PO Box 273, Council Grove, KS 66846.