CRANSTON, R.I. – Roman Tonkover passed peacefully on Aug. 1, 2023, at RI Hospital, surrounded by his lovely family. Born in Odessa, Ukraine, he immigrated to the US in 1979. He was a son of the late Boris and Sophia Tonkover. Roman was married for 40 years to Sofya Tonkover.
Roman was a master jeweler, hand engraver and toolmaker. He started as an apprentice at a very young age, and for the next 50+ years of his life, his passion for the art led him to become a true artist and craftsman. He was an extremely hard worker. Roman was an avid animal and nature lover. He raised beautiful show dogs, parrots, exotic fish and bonzai flowers.
He is survived by his wife, Sofya Tonkover, of Cranston. He also is survived by two sons, Toliy Krasner and his wife, Danielle, of Johnston, and Alan Tonkover, of Cranston, and two grandchildren, Adam and Mark Tonkover.
Roman was loved and touched the heart of everyone and anyone he met and will be missed by everyone who had the true pleasure of meeting him. His simple and humble nature, while having the drive and motivation to work and provide for his family, was something that will not be forgotten.
Roman enjoyed spending time with his family and was a very proud father and grandfather.
Contributions in his memory may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.