Michael J. Toner, beloved husband, father, and friend, died Monday, December 28, 2009 at the age of 59. Born on July 27, 1950 to Robert and Bettie Toner in Havre de Grace, Maryland, Mike has been a resident of Dutchess County for over 30 years. An active member of the community, Mike was a frequent judge at the local science fair as well as a coach for the East Fishkill girls' travel soccer league and St. Columba's CYO basketball. Mike served in the US Navy as a Medical Assistant earning a National Defense Service Medal and a Meritorious Unit Commendation. In 1988, he graduated from Marist College where he was inducted into the Alpha Sigma Lambda honor society. He was employed as an engineer by IBM in Hopewell Junction where he resided with his wife.

A loving husband, Mike was married to his wife, Claudia for 35 years. "I will remember his resolve, his quiet will, and the steady peace he had with himself… This is what made me fall in love with my husband." Together they shared a passion for nature, the ocean, and their children.

Mike was a caring and devoted father. He shared with his daughters, Tiffany and Erika, his affinity for life – coaching their soccer teams, supporting their desire to travel, and encouraging them to experience all the world has to offer. He instilled in his girls the belief that family and friends can be one in the same. Those who we choose to love and those who love us back are what make life worthwhile. He will hold a place in his daughters' hearts that no one else will ever fill.

After an intense and courageous two year battle with mesothelioma, Mike passed peacefully at home with his wife and daughters. He loved the outdoors – skiing with his friends and daughters and fishing with his brother-in-laws and nephew. He enjoyed reading and science-fiction films. His most cherished moments were quiet times with his family. Mike found joy in music, simple pleasures, and the happiness of those he loved. His kindness and generosity will always remain in the memory of those who knew him.

Mike is survived by his wife, Claudia Toner, his daughters, Tiffany and Erika Toner, his brother-in-law and his wife, Robert and Joanne Grob, his nephew and niece, Michael and Melissa Grob, his mother-in-law, Frieda Grob, and his brother, Terry Toner. His was predeceased by his brother-in-law, Richard Grob, his father, Robert Toner, his sister, Shelia Toner, and his mother, Bettie Lawing. Mike is also survived by several cousins, nieces, and nephews who were very special to him.

Calling hours will be held on Saturday from 1 to 5 p.m. at the McHoul Funeral Home, Inc., 895 Route 82, Hopewell Junction.  The funeral service will be during the calling hours at 4:45 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Mesothelioma Research or the Thornton & Naumes House of Brigham and Women's Hospital. www.brighamandwomens.org .