Ronald Edward Tokarchik

Ronald Tokarchik, 77, of Castle Rock, Colorado died unexpectedly on Sunday, June 18, 2023, with his wife and daughters by his side. His last day was spent at the remote village of Hoonah, Alaska where he fished for halibut and searched for grizzly bears under rare blue skies and sunshine. He would have described it as a perfect day.

Ron, the youngest of two children, was born in 1945 to Thomas and Suzanne Tokarchik in Cleveland, Ohio. His beginnings were extraordinarily humble, spending his childhood and teen years working to support the family’s basic needs and caring for his sick father. After graduating from high school, Ron served as a Sergeant in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War, spending considerable time in Southeast Asia. After the military, Ron ultimately settled in Colorado where he had successful careers as an auto mechanic, commercial airline inspector, and United States Postal Service technician.

Those who knew Ron admired him; it was impossible not to be impressed by his unparalleled intellect. He seemingly knew everything about everything and yet he was an ardent student, eager to learn more. His mind worked in remarkable ways, harnessing the ability to build, draw, engineer, repair, and reimagine anything. Ron was passionate, driven and focused, wanting the best for himself, family, and friends. His innate abilities positively influenced, inspired and rippled throughout many people's lives but especially his family’s. Ron always took time and made efforts to share the wisdom gained through his life’s experiences. He was generous, loyal, and brave with an enormous heart and a wonderful sense of humor.

His beloved wife, Martha Tokarchik, was his devoted partner for 28 years. In retirement, they traveled the world visiting over 120 countries and all seven continents multiple times. Together, they were a dynamic duo that sought out wildlife adventures in all corners of the globe. Ron loved Marty with his whole heart. They supported each other in every endeavor, great or small; they were truly a couple that shared a lifetime of love and adventure.

Ron’s interests included wildlife, RV camping, fishing, hiking, photography, and extensive world travels. Later in life, Ron discovered a love for scuba diving. He was a PADI Advanced Open Water Scuba diver and PADI Certified Rescue diver. Ron was extremely passionate about the stock market, researching its history and applying that knowledge to investing.

Among his many passions, he held his girls closest to his heart. He wholeheartedly loved his daughters Christine and Cindy, and granddaughter Emma, who was his greatest joy. Emma made him beam with pride and delight. Family was Ron’s ultimate source of pride; he thought of his family in everything he did.

Ron is preceded in death by his parents and brother Thomas. He is survived by his wife Martha, his two daughters Christine and Cindy, his first wife Carolyn, and his granddaughter Emma (Cindy).

For those wishing to say good-bye or offer condolences to the family:

Visitation with the family present will be held on Wednesday, June 28 from 5:00 - 8:00 p.m. at Olinger Andrews Caldwell Gibson Chapel at 407 Jerry St. Castle Rock, CO 80104. All are welcome.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, June 29 at 10:30 a.m. at Christ Episcopal Church located at 615 Fourth St, Castle Rock, CO 80104. All are welcome.

Military Funeral Honors Ceremony will be held on Thursday, July 6 at 11:30 a.m. at Fort Logan National Cemetery located at 4400 W. Kenyon Ave. Denver, CO 80236. All are welcome. Please be sure to arrive by 11:15 am at Assembly Area "B" for this committal service.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Colorado Parks and Wildlife or Nature Conservancy in Ron's memory. Please see the active links directly below.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.OlingerAndrews.com for the Tokarchik family.