Tonja Garfinkel

Tonja Kay Mills Garfinkel of Peoria, Arizona, passed away unexpectedly Jan. 2, 2025.

Tonja was born in Poplar Bluff, Missouri Oct. 2, 1969 to Herman Mills and Carolyn Kay Stoker Marsh. Herm was in the Air Force at the time, deployed to Vietnam. The family relocated to Phoenix, Arizona in 1970 where Tonja grew up. She attended Independence High School in Glendale, Arizona, graduating in 1987. She married Robert Garfinkel Dec.22, 1990.

Tonja is survived by her father, Herman Mills of Glendale, Arizona; her mother, Carolyn Marsh and stepfather, Owen Bud Marsh of Prescott, Arizona; and her husband of 34 years, Robert Garfinkel of Peoria. She also leaves behind her son. Nicholas Garfinkel; daughter-in-law, Steffany and grandchildren, Ryder and Pyper of Peoria, Arizona and her son, Andrew Garfinkel of Wellington, Colorado. She also leaves behind her sisters, Kristen Williams Warren and Elizabeth Marsh; and brothers, David and Jonathan Marsh. She will be greatly missed by her nieces and nephews in Arizona and her aunts and many cousins in Missouri.

Tonja was preceded in death by her grandparents, Herman and Pansy Mills, and Lester and Mildred Stoker, and several aunts and uncles.

Tonja was a shining light to all who knew her. She had a fun personality and a great sense of humor. Tonja and Rob had many wonderful gatherings at their home over the years. Tonja loved her family and many friends. Her grandchildren were such a joy in her life.

No funeral service is being held as per Tonja’s request. Donations in her honor can be made to Disabled American Veterans at dav.org.