James Tonkin, Former Publisher Of The Yakima Herald-Republic

James E. Tonkin, former publisher of the Yakima Herald-Republic, died of brain cancer last Friday, Feb. 23, at his home in Rancho Mirage, Calif. He was 69.

Born in Butte, Mont., Mr. Tonkin grew up in Seattle.

"He was always ambitious, but too impatient," said his daughter Sally Tonkin of Seattle. "He left high school at age 15 to work in pipe fitting, then lied about his age to join the Navy in World War II."

After the war, he earned a bachelor's degree in business administration from the University of Washington, served in Korea, then in 1952 took a job in the advertising department of the Yakima Herald-Republic, owned by his wife's family.

He worked his way up, and became publisher in 1973.

Mr. Tonkin was active in community affairs, including the Chamber of Commerce and YMCA. He also served as president of Allied Daily Newspapers of Washington.

He retired in 1980.

Other survivors include his wife, Nancy Tonkin of Yakima and Rancho Mirage; daughters Susan Pratt of Redmond and Stacy Heintz of Issaquah; six grandchildren; and his sister, Joy Randall of Seattle.

Private services are planned. Remembrances may be made to Heritage College, 3251 Fort Road, Toppenish, WA 98948.