Denis W. Tongish
Denis W. Tongish passed away Tuesday (June 2, 2009) at
Presbyterian Manor in Newton at the age of 84.
He was born on April 24, 1925, in Herndon to Mary (Hutfles)
and John Tongish. They preceded him in death.
Raised on the family farm, Denis attended St. Mary's
Catholic School and graduated from Herndon High School in 1943.
On Sept. 28, 1948, Denis was united in marriage to Wilma
(Kompus) Tongish. They made their home on the farm southeast of Herndon, where
they raised six children.
Denis was a hardworking farmer and rancher until his
retirement in 1990, taking great pride in working on and conserving the land.
After retirement, Denis and Wilma moved to Herndon. Following the sad passing
of Wilma in 2004, Denis moved to Newton in 2006.
In his younger years, Denny enjoyed many activities such as
pheasant hunting, blue rock shooting and playing pitch. He also was a member of
the Knights of Columbus, Oberlin American Legion and the McCook Elks Club.
Those left to mourn his passing include his children, June
Tongish of Salt Lake City, Dave Tongish and wife, Pat, of Newton, Joe Tongish
and wife, Becky, of Topeka, Jim Tongish and wife, Amy, of Newton, Dawn Tongish
and husband, Eduardo, of Grapevine, Texas, and Dee Davis and husband, Wayne, of
Lenexa; 14 grandchildren; and one brother, Marion Tongish and wife, Ronnie, of
Denver.
Also preceding him in death were his brother Elmer and
infant brother Melvin.
Denis was a dedicated husband, father and farmer who will be
missed by all who knew him.
