Maine H. Tonkin

Maine H. Tonkin passed away on 10/29/2025. Born in Seattle May 26, 1935 to parents Herbert J. and Helen A. Tonkin. Beloved husband of Helen H. Tonkin for 40 years, who preceded him in death. Maine and Helen’s children often commented on the unusually loving, harmonious nature of their marriage. Surviving children include Steve Tonkin of Sultan, Gail Tonkin of Woodinville and Nancy (Jeff) Ward of Seattle. Mr. Tonkin has a grandson, Riley Pluth and a granddaughter, Makena Pluth. Mr. Tonkin is survived by a very loving partner, Rosetta Smith. Mr. Tonkin is survived by a brother, Jack R. Tonkin of Seattle.

Maine enjoyed growing up in Seattle’s Ravenna district, Queen Ann and Ballard, before moving to Kirkland in 1946. Walking into downtown Kirkland and riding the ferry to Seattle to shop were favorite pastimes. Children then had freedom to roam wherever their hearts desired.

Maine was a member of the Washington National Guard for 8 years. Mr. Tonkin is a graduate of University of Washington and holds a postgraduate degree (Masters) in Electrical Engineering. He was a member of Phi Kappa Tau fraternity. He held various electronic design and management positions for Boeing in the Defense & Space Divisions for 37 years. A couple of his more interesting assignments were the architecture and logic design of the Lunar Orbiter flight programmer in 1965 and lead engineer on the Lunar Rover’s (moon buggy) navigation system in 1969. The Lunar Orbiter was NASA’s first programmable spacecraft, the first to employ integrated circuits and the first to be 100% reliable. He was a licensed Professional Engineer, member of national electronic committees, and a member of professional societies in electronics and displays. He is a past commodore of Seabacs Boat Club, and past treasurer and trustee for Recreational Boating Association of Washington. He was a past treasurer and board member of Wandering Creek Homes Association. While his children were growing, he was active in YMCA Indian Guides, Kirkland American Little League, and various school activities. He was also an amateur radio operator, KC7MW. He loved fly fishing, golfing and designed and flew RC model gliders in the 1960,s and electric RC airplanes more recently. He was a charter member of the Museum of Flight.

A memorial celebration will be held in January with family and friends. Memorials may be made to Museum of Flight, 9404 East Marginal Way, Seattle WA 98104 or at https://www.museumofflight.org/support/make-a-gift.