National Mine- William R. Tonge, age 72 longtime National Mine resident passed away Wednesday August 5, 2015 at UP Health System Marquette.

William was born August 1, 1943 in Ishpeming to William L. & Betty (Oates) Tonge. Bill was self employed, working as a sawyer operating Bill's Sawmill in National Mine for over 30 years. He was a member of the Negaunee Eagles.

Bill is survived by 3 children: Carol (Steve) Verboczki of Gwinn, Roy Tonge of Negaunee, & Sue Tonge of Negaunee, step children: Jeff (Angel) Pohlman of National Mine, William (Ramona) Pohlman of New York and Gloria (Jeff) Hanson of Jackson, MI, 5 brothers: Larry (Claudia) Tonge of Chilton, WI, Dennis (Lisa) Tonge of National Mine, Lonnie (Patsy) Tonge of National Mine, Lee "Chick" (Dana) Tonge of Champion and Jack (Debra Pellow) Tonge of National Mine, Gary of Negaunee, 4 sisters: Marlene (Jay) Clark of Arkansas, Cathleen Mullin of Texas, Mary Morris of Negaunee and Linda (Don) Steed of Negaunee, grandchildren: Rebecca Cotterman, Donald Cotterman, Kristine Tonge, Jeff Pohlman, Matthew & Amanda Pohlman, Olivia & Emily Hanson, great grandchildren: Landyn Hall, Caydon Tonge and Brently Beckman along with several nieces and nephews. Bill was preceded in death by his parents and wife Donna Tonge.

Bill's family will greet relatives and friends on Monday August 10th from 2:00-4:00pm at the Bjork & Zhulkie Funeral Home in Ishpeming.

Bill's obituary can be viewed at bjorkandzhulkie.com where relatives and friends may leave a note of remembrance.