Tonia Mahnken

Tonia Lyn Mahnken, age 87, passed away peacefully at home into the loving arms of Jesus on August 27, 2025. She found the Lord later in life and had peace and comfort in reading her favorite Bible scriptures, the Psalms.

She was born on August 9, 1938, in Southern California where she grew up and started her family. Aside from being a loving mom and wife, her artistic talents began to blossom after her kids were raised. What began as a hobby of tole style painting quickly turned into her being an expert teacher and business owner, where she shared her talents with others. Eventually she desired to expand her creativity into a variety of mediums and styles including acrylic, watercolor, and oils. She wanted to,” convey the feeling of beauty and nature and her view of God’s creation” with others. Her many varieties of paintings truly inspire her family and are treasures that will always remind us of her. Such talent!

Beyond her artistic talents and achievements, Tonia was a cherished and loving wife to her husband Jack of 49 years, who predeceased her in September 2024. His “Cutie” is now with him in heaven!

Tonia is survived by her four daughters and their spouses: Debra Moore, Diane Busald (Tim), Janice Chamberlain (Bob), and Vicki Smith (Mark), along with nine grandchildren and five great grandchildren. Tonia was devoted to her family and centered her life around them. She loved hosting gatherings with her family who enjoyed her delicious homemade food and pies (another amazing talent!). In addition, she was a cheerful supporter of her grandkids and their activities and achievements.

Her favorite places to travel to were the Oregon coast and to Hawaii. She got much of her inspiration for many of her paintings from these travels as they reflect the beauty that gave her so much joy. Being an avid camper, she and Jack would RV at lakes, rivers, and beautiful spots that continued to inspire her paintings. Of course, many of those camping trips included family, friends, and grandkids who loved smores!

After moving to Oregon in 1993 in retirement, she and Jack also spent time traveling back and forth to Palm Desert. This kept them close to family that remained in California. Tonia will be greatly missed as she had laughter that was contagious and a heart of generosity that touched many lives.

A celebration of life will be held and Hull and Hull Funeral Directors on September 20, 2025, at 11:30 am (viewing), 12:30 pm (service), and a graveside service at Hillcrest Memorial Park at 2 pm.

Please share a memory of Tonia in her guestbook.