Joel John Toth's Obituary
Joel John Toth, much-loved father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully with family by his side, Monday, October 2, 2023, at Mission Point Nursing and Physical Rehabilitation Center of Big Rapids, Michigan.
He was born January 8, 1939, in Syracuse, New York, to Frank and Dorothy (Townsend) Toth. Joel lived in the area most of his 84 years. He went to grade school, middle school and high school in the Syracuse area, and attended Houghton College in western New York. He graduated from Syracuse University with a bachelor's degree in business administration, and later, a master's degree in education.
At 24, Joel married his former wife, Gwyneth (Smith) Phillips, and together they had three children: Heather, Scott and Amy Lynn. In his 20s and 30s, Joel worked in the family business with his father: 7-Hour Martinizing/Dry Cleaning and Laundry. After selling 7-Hour, Joel became a teacher of business, accounting and typing at East Syracuse Minoa High School and Central City Business Institute. In his later years, he worked as a financial controller, commercial realtor, and as one of the best customer service representatives a local men's clothing store ever had.
Joel was also a teacher of the Bible at North Syracuse Baptist Church, and shared the message of his Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ. He taught his children and many others about the Gospel. He taught Sunday school and led a youth group for several years. Joel also supported a Christian group of high school students by being at school early, allowing them to meet.
His family, friends and acquaintances describe Joel as direct, intelligent, patient, kind, compassionate and supportive. A dry humor along with snappy retorts were often delivered well-timed and with wit. His facial expressions spoke volumes. Best known was the 'you are in deep trouble... stop now' glance, given to his children and students alike.
33 years ago, Joel met Marcia Luke, whom he described as the love of his life. For most of that time, where you found one of them, you found them both. Their companionship bloomed and was based on their mutual love for Jesus. Sadly, in December of 2022, illness led to Joel being cared for in Michigan, while Marcia stayed in Syracuse in the care of her children. They continued to talk daily, until it was no longer possible. As Joel and Marcia have both said, their love will remain into eternity.
His wisdom and loving nature are deeply missed by Marcia; Joel's children, Heather Toth (Matt Mortenson), Scott (Dena) Toth, and Amy Lynn (Tim) Bosch; grandchildren, Ron, Drew, Tegan, Kirstin, Garrett, Sarah, and Ian; and great-grandchildren, Carter, Avery, and Dante. Marcia's children, Tommy (Jan), Marie (Brian) and Marcia Ann also miss him. He loved them as if they were his own. Joel was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Dorothy, and his brother, Denny.
Joel requested there be no funeral services. A private family burial will take place at a future date. Care and arrangements are entrusted to Mohnke Funeral Home in Big Rapids, Michigan.
Joel loved to look out at God's creation, and always had a fondness for trees. If you're so inclined, his family would appreciate you planting a tree in his memory at: https://shop.arborday.org/trees-in-memory
Joel's family would very much like you to share any memories, or expressions of condolence, at mohnkefuneralhome.com
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