Bernard “B.J.” Jonathan Tooker, 45, of Bear Lake, passed into our dear Lord’s loving arms Tuesday, August 17, 2021, at Munson Medical Center, in Traverse City, with his mother, Christine, and loving partner, Pam, by his side.
He was born November 16, 1975, in Creve Coeur, Missouri, the son of Christine Eckhout and Carl Tooker.
B.J. served as a Sheriff’s Deputy in Douglas County, Nevada, for several years before pursuing a career in international security. He worked as a Security Specialist and Security Manager during his tours in Iraq and Afghanistan. In May, he returned to Michigan from
Afghanistan where he took a job as Operations Manager with Thoroughbred Boat Company in Manistee.
B.J. was an active member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, in Onekama, where he served on the church board and helped with the food bank. He loved the outdoors, especially sailing, 4-wheeling, and riding his motorcycle. Most of all, B.J. loved spending time with his family.
B.J. is survived by his loving partner, Pam Miklaski; mother, Christine Eckhout; father, Carl Tooker; sister, Carrie (Brad) Cockman; brother, Brian (Jenny) Clark; nieces, Lena Richardson and Sarah Clark; nephew, Charles Clark; and several extended family members.
B.J. was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Bernard and Lenore Eckhout; and uncle, Michael Eckhout.
Mass from the Order of Christian Funerals will be celebrated at 11:00 AM, Saturday, August 28, 2021, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, in Onekama, with Father Ruben Munoz celebrant. Interment will follow in the Pleasanton Township Cemetery in Bear Lake. Visitation will be held from 5-7 PM, Friday, August 27, 2021, at Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, 1132 Main Street, Frankfort, with the Rosary to be prayed at 7:00 PM. Visitation will also be held at the church from 10:00 AM until time of Mass on Saturday.
Memorial contributions may be made Cross Catholic Outreach, P.O. Box 97168 Washington D.C., 20077, or to St. Joseph Catholic Church in Onekama.
Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, FrankfortChapel, is in charge of arrangements.
www.beaconfh.com