James Louis Tonda

Jim was born on May 13, 1938, in San Francisco, California. He graduated from Lowell High School before proudly serving in the United States Air Force. Later in life he earned his Associate's Degree from Yuba College, achieving a perfect 4.0 GPA—an accomplishment that reflected his dedication, discipline, and lifelong commitment to learning.

Throughout his life, Jim called many places home, including San Francisco and Yuba City, California; Tallahassee and Havana, Florida; and Mesa, Arizona, where he resided in his later years.

On September 8, 1962, Jim married the love of his life, Vicki Tonda, in Reno, Nevada. Together they built a marriage that spanned decades, rooted in love, devotion, friendship, and unwavering support. Their partnership was the foundation of a family that meant everything to him.

Jim dedicated an extraordinary 56 years of service to Langendorf/Dolly Madison, beginning his career at the company and steadily working his way up through hard work, perseverance, and integrity. He retired as a Sales Supervisor, respected by colleagues and admired for his strong work ethic and leadership.

Outside of work, Jim's greatest passion was golf. He enjoyed countless days on the course, embracing both the challenge of the game and the camaraderie it brought. Yet nothing brought him more joy than spending time with his family.

Jim was a man of character whose word could always be trusted. He believed integrity mattered, positivity mattered, and that no matter what obstacles life presented, things would always work out in the end. He was encouraging, dependable, supportive, and endlessly devoted to those he loved. He had a remarkable gift for making people feel welcome and valued. Jim never met a stranger; he could strike up a conversation anywhere and often left with a new friend.

His sense of humor, lighthearted spirit, and ability to find joy in everyday moments helped create countless treasured memories for his family and friends. He worked hard, loved deeply, and taught those around him the importance of honesty, kindness, and optimism.

Jim is survived by his beloved wife, Vicki Tonda; his children, Nicole Gill, James Lawrence Tonda and Jeanie Martin; his grandchildren, Toby Joyner, Christopher Martin, and Caitlyn Gill, and his great grandchildren Addyson Joyner and Corbin Joyner; his brother, Russ Tonda; and his sister, Judith Tonda. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jim and Bernice Tonda and his brother Gary Tonda.

He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, integrity, and perseverance that will continue to inspire all who knew him.

Though he will be deeply missed, Jim's family finds comfort in the countless memories they shared and in the lessons he taught through the example of a life well lived.

"A life measured not by years, but by the love given, the lives touched, and the integrity shown every day."

A Celebration of Life will be held at Mariposa Gardens Memorial Park and Funeral Home, 400 South Power Road, Mesa, AZ 85206, US, on July 13, 2026, from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm.