Obituary: John ‘Ed’ Tomjanovich

John Edward Tomjanovich of Sturgeon Bay died Wednesday, October 11, 2017 at the Whispering Heights Nursing Home.  He was born on November 23, 1926 to the late John and Antonia Tomjanovich.  He married Kathryn Farrand on May 12, 1951 in Sturgeon Bay. Together they tenderly raised three children and two grandchildren.

Ed was a brilliant mechanic for the Ahnapee and Western Railroad, traits he left mechanically to his two sons as they worked on engines by his side.  Until his retirement, Ed worked as the Steel Bridge tender for the county.

As a father, grandfather and great grandfather, Ed or “Bop” drew endearment by his strength of character. Well read, and known as “the library”, he knew much about everything. Ed liked tinkering outdoors, making things work and spending time with his family. He was happiest surrounded by his great grandchildren, finding vehicles for them to ride and just watching them with ardent joy.

Ed is survived by his sons, David (Joy), Steven (Lynn) both of Sturgeon Bay.  Survived also by his grandchildren: Sara Tomjanovich (Terri Wells) of Delafield, WI, Robert Zwettler (Amy) of Rhinelander WI, Julie Zwettler (Josh) of Indianapolis, IN, Joseph Tomjanovich (Kelly) and Tyler (Brittany) both of Madison. Ed has also been blessed with 10 great grandchildren:  Liam, Finley and Silas, (children of Sara and Terri) Jared and Allison (children of Rob and Amy), Katie, Samuel, Will, and Benjamin (children of Julie and Josh), and Hailey (daughter of Tyler and Brittany). He was preceded in death by his wife Kathryn, daughter Ann and his parents.

Graveside services will be conducted in the near future.  In lieu of flowers, contributions may be given to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital or Unity Hospice in his name.  Forbes Funeral Home & Cremations is in charge of arrangements.