John Anthony Tolnay

John Tolnay, age 69, passed away on February 24, 2026, in South Lyon. He was born on October 17, 1956, in Detroit, and remained a proud Michigan resident throughout his life.

A 1975 graduate of Allen Park High School, John carried with him the values of hard work, loyalty, and compassion that defined his character. He was highly respected by his former employer, known for his strong work ethic, reliability, and integrity.

John had a lifelong love of motorcycles and vintage cars. He found joy in the craftsmanship and history of classic vehicles and cherished time spent riding and sharing stories with fellow enthusiasts. His passion for engines and the open road brought him great happiness.

Above all, John had a profound passion for cats. For many years, he devoted himself to rescuing and caring for cats in need. He volunteered at a local animal shelter, often adopting cats that required special medical attention and personally ensuring they received the care and treatment they deserved. His home became a place of comfort and safety for many animals. His compassion and dedication left a lasting impact on countless feline lives.

John is survived by his loving sisters, Jenny Tolnay and Dorothy Gustafson (Gerald). He was preceded in death by his mother, Mary (Massucci) Tolnay-Nichta; his father, John Tolnay; and his sister, Joanne Petri.

A Memorial Mass will be held at Church of the Holy Family, 24505 Meadowbrook Rd., Novi, Michigan, on Thursday, March 19, 2026. A gathering of friends and family will begin at 10:00 a.m., followed by Mass at 10:30 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Together We Save Cat Rescue, 25890 Peter Kaltz, Warren, MI 48091, in honor of John's deep love and lifelong commitment to caring for cats.

John will be remembered for his steady presence, generous heart, and unwavering compassion for animals. His memory will live on in the many lives he touched.