Stephen Edward Tonchen

Stephen Edward Tonchen, 78, passed away on Monday, July 14, 2025. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, Stephen leaves behind a legacy of intellect, compassion, faith, and quiet strength.

Born on June 19, 1947, in Orange, New Jersey, Stephen was raised in Hawaii from the age of three. He attended the prestigious Punahou School in Honolulu on a scholarship after his remarkable talent was recognized during a summer program. It was there he developed a lifelong love for science and rocketry-famously launching a rocket so high as a teen that he accidentally violated airspace regulations. The incident attracted the attention of the FBI, who showed up at his family's home to investigate. His mother was mortified, but the story became a favorite family legend and a testament to Stephen's early brilliance and bold curiosity.

Stephen pursued his academic passions at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI), one of the nation's top universities in engineering and computer science. He earned both a bachelor's degree in applied mechanics and a master's degree in operations research. While at RPI, he tutored calculus and statistics-subjects that came naturally to him-and continued mentoring family members in math and science throughout his life.

A pioneer in the tech world, Stephen mastered numerous programming languages including COBOL, C, Java, Unix, and Assembly. His career spanned decades and included positions at Chase Manhattan Bank and Mobius Management Systems before founding his own corporation, RI Systems. Through his work, he contributed to major government institutions including the U.S. Department of Defense at Scott Air Force Base and the Social Security Administration.

Stephen was also a man of deep faith, guided by his belief in God throughout his life. His faith shaped his values and interactions, grounding him in purpose, humility, and a sincere desire to help others. He lived out his beliefs through service, kindness, and a strong moral compass that influenced all he did.

Beyond his professional achievements, Stephen was a passionate follower of politics and world affairs. His research and insights were well-respected in forums and conversations, often surpassing the depth of professional journalists. Those who debated him quickly learned his facts were solid and his reasoning sound.

Above all, Stephen was a man deeply devoted to his family. He is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Leona (Fawthrop); his children, John Tonchen and Sharon (Michael) Roberts; six grandchildren, Tyler, Maria, Madison, Leah, Carter, and Michael James; one great-grandchild, Allison; and many beloved nieces and nephews. He always made time to help his children, John and Sharon, with their homework-instilling in them a love for learning and problem-solving that carried through their lives. His generosity and guidance touched generations-whether through tutoring, walks full of wisdom, or simply listening with care.

Stephen's legacy is one of brilliance, curiosity, faith, and love. He will be dearly missed and forever remembered.

A private memorial will be held by the family. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that acts of kindness and generosity be made in his memory.