February 18, 1981 – January 10, 2026
On January 10th, 2026, John Ramon Tongson, age 44, died while protecting his family. Though his death was sudden and senseless, it reflected who John was at his core – a person who cared deeply and who instinctively stepped up when others were in need.
John was born in Two Harbors, MN on February 18, 1981, to Joe and Jeanne Tongson. He was raised along the North Shore with sisters, Kristin and Natalie. From an early age, John loved to build, create, and explore the land behind his home. His love for the outdoors and nature continued into adulthood and included hiking, camping, or simply skipping rocks with his kids.
John participated in sports throughout school, which included basketball, football, Nordic skiing, and golf. He spent time on his school’s Yearbook committee, was a Peer Helper, and played the tuba in band. Still, his favorite moments were found outside of schedules – supporting the Minnesota Vikings, playing the guitar with friends and family, or a game or pickup basketball with friends. John was a true outdoorsman with a lifelong love of nature. He cherished the North Shore and Minnesota’s lakes and forests. A craftsman at heart, John had a way of making ordinary moments joyful, memorable, and full of life.
John graduated from Two Harbors High School in 2000, attended post- secondary schooling and obtained certifications in Pool Operations, Boiler Operation, Electrical Systems, and Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning. He worked in various roles throughout his adult life, though primarily in maintenance for apartment complexes. John loved to work with his hands, troubleshoot, or work on his truck.
John met his first love, Judith, in 2002. Together they raised three children and were part of a strong community within and outside of church. In 2023, John met his current partner, Margie, and welcomed two step-children. The match between Margie and John seemed instantaneous. They recently spent a year living in Florida before returning to the Twin Cities in May 2025.
John was known for his kind spirit, infectious laugh, and a sense of humor that could catch you off guard and keep you smiling long after. Being around him meant laughter, warmth, and a mischievous spark that could brighten any room.
John was survived by children Aram (25), Ethan (20), Scarlett (15) with ex-wife Judy Kelly (Monroe Kelly); step children Josh (15) and Jina (9) with parter Margie, parents Joe and Jeanne Tongson; sisters Kristin Hollander (Corland Egertson) and Natalie Dahlgren (Aron Dahlgren); and four nieces and nephews – Elee Hollander (16), Graham Hollander (14), Sam Dahlgren (11), and Harry Dahlgren (7). John is also survived by many aunts and uncles, cousins, and friends. John was preceded in death by grandparents Ramon & Ruth Tongson, Joyce & Dan Gustafson, Jerome Ecklund; uncle Gary Tongson; and brother-in-law David Duran.
A memorial celebrating John’s life will be held Friday, February 6th, at Washburn – McReavy Funeral Home in Edina, MN. Visitation will start at 1 pm with a service at 2 pm. John’s family asks that this day be one of remembrance and laughter; honoring the joy John brought into the lives of those he loved and everyone lucky enough to have known him.
