John Francis Toton

Dr. John Francis Toton lived in Santa Rosa for 32 years, and passed away peacefully in his sleep on the morning of Saturday, July 12, 2025 at the age of 82.

John was born in Philadelphia, PA, where he grew up with his sister and two brothers in the Manayunk neighborhood. After graduating from St. Joseph's College, he gained his medical degree from Temple University. John's residency was followed by service in the U.S. Army, achieving the rank of Major as a surgeon stationed in Okinawa, Japan.

Upon returning, John began a long career in orthopedic surgery at Kaiser Permanente in San Francisco and San Rafael, where he became a respected leader in the surgical treatment of spinal conditions. After retiring from Kaiser, he earned a law degree, started an orthopedic second opinion practice in Healdsburg, and continued to assist colleagues in surgeries.

Though he was born in Philly, John's heart was forever tied to the Bay Area, perhaps because the A's had also moved west. A loyal Oakland A's fan, he held season tickets for over 20 years.

John was a true people person who found joy in connecting with others. As a doctor, he was known for spending extra time with patients, wanting to hear their stories-not just their symptoms. He called friends and family often, even while running errands, simply to check in and stay connected. He was endlessly curious about people and what shaped their lives.

John was also quietly generous. He wasn't one for traditional gift-giving, but when something reminded him of someone, it would often appear on their doorstep. And sometimes he did too. He loved surprising loved ones with visits and was always ready to lend a hand. In every way, John showed up for the people he cared about.

John is survived by his wife Linda Lorz, five children, Rebecca (Eric Monson), John (Lisa), Jennifer (Eric Anschutz), Matthew (Carla), Elizabeth (Jonathan Evans), two step children, Trevor (Melissa) and Taylor (Zander Kestly), fourteen grandchildren, Madelyn (Garrett Halliday), Emily, Sonja, Ava, Sabrina, Avery, Liv, Liam, Jack, Samantha, Logan, Wynter, Bronte and Keagan, and three siblings, Suzanne (Jerry Zurek), Stephen (Patricia), and Andrew (Karen).

There will be a celebration of life for John on Saturday, August 23rd. Please reach out to his daughter, Rebecca, for more details: monson.rebecca@gmail.com.