Alice Tonytte Kolanko

Alice Tonytte “Toni” Kolanko passed from this world in peace on January 28th, 2026. She was born in Anderson, Indiana, on July 9th, 1938, the only child of Brice and Lorene (Cauley) Davis. Toni graduated from Lapel High School in 1956, and later from Butler University with degrees in English and Mathematics. Later in her career, she earned her Master’s degree in Mathematics from Purdue University.

She was married to Dr. Ronald L. Kolanko from 1960-64, and again from 1966-1974; he preceded her in death in 2020. Her parents, her beloved Aunt Jo, her wonderful niece Heather, her raconteur ex-brother-in-law Ron, and many adored pets, both dogs and cats, also preceded her in death. She had two children, Kent (Karen) and Kurt Kolanko, who survive. Also surviving are two grandchildren, four great grandchildren, three nieces and three nephews (and their families), and three former in-laws; dearly loved.

Her teaching career began before she graduated college, as from 1955-59 she was an associate dance instructor at the Anne Harmeson School of Dance in Anderson (and performed at the school’s 50th Anniversary Gala; her tap dancing was picture perfect). After graduating college and a brief stint working in Indianapolis, she began her 30+-year career teaching mathematics for the Kokomo-Center School Corporation and later at Indiana University Kokomo and Ivy Tech after her retirement. She also tutored privately during this later period. The students whose lives she impacted are countless; she was always on the lookout for ways to help, uplift, comfort, and guide. In particular, she was involved in several academic teams and was the sponsor, coach, and choreographer for Haworth High School’s Gold Duster Pom-Pom squad until Haworth ceased to exist; her “girls” always had a special place in her heart.

She was heavily involved – for decades – in the KTA (serving as President for four years), ISTA, and NEA; and was involved in negotiations, conventions, and councils of all kinds promoting quality education, properly trained professionals, and fair compensation for teachers. She was also a member of Delta Kappa Gamma (serving as both President and VP for a time) and her local chapter of the Retired Teachers’ Association. She also served for a long time off-and-on on the Board of Directors for the City of Firsts Community Federal Credit Union, and served on the parish council for St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church in the 1970s.

A celebration of life will take place at a later date at Eller’s Mortuary, 3400 S Webster Street, Kokomo, IN 46902. In lieu of flowers, it is her wish that donations be made to Riley Children’s Hospital, the Michael J. Fox Foundation, or the American Cancer Society.

Her remains will be interred at the Maplewood Cemetery in Anderson, between her parents and with her other family.