Curtis J. Tonneson, 76, Minot and longtime Minot High School business education teacher died from cancer Wednesday, November 2, 2011 in his home.

Curt was born on April 13, 1935 in Newburg, ND to John and Esther (Nelson) Tonneson. He was raised in Newburg for six years until the family moved to Upham where he attended elementary school. The family moved to Minot in 1948. In 1953 Curt graduated from the Dakota Lutheran Academy in Minot. He continued his education at Concordia College- Moorhead, MN where he graduated in 1957 with a double major in Business Education and History teaching. Curt married Donna Anderson on June 1, 1957 in Clearbrook, MN. They made their home in Newfolden, MN where Curt taught business classes for seven years.

Curt and Donna moved to Minot in 1964 where he began teaching at Minot High School. He earned his master's degree in education from UND in 1970. Curt also taught summer business education workshops at Mankato State University, Minot State University and UND, and taught Adult Education classes for 29 years. Curt retired from the Minot Public School System in 1997. Following his retirement he taught business classes part time at Our Redeemer's Christian School for 4 years. Over the course of his career, Curt received the ND Vocational Education "Teacher of the Year" award along with various other teaching awards.

Curt was a member of Our Redeemer's Lutheran Brethren Church of Minot where he was active in the choir and served as church treasurer and trustee. He was also a member of the Sons of Norway, MEA, NDEA, National Business Education Association, ND Vocational Association, ND Business Education Association, Good Sam RV Club and Family Motor Coach Association.

Curt enjoyed spending time with his family and friends, traveling in his motorhome, reading, and listening to music. He also enjoyed woodworking. He started by making his own wooden toys to play with, and throughout his life he made many kitchen cabinets and furniture for himself and others.

Curt's loving family includes his wife of 54 years, Donna, Minot; son, Steven (Lynette) Tonneson, Minot, grandchildren: Angela (Scott) Skones, Krista (Joey) Bratvold and Alyssa Tonneson; great-grandchildren: Maycee Skones, Jayce and Bryce Bratvold; sister, Ilene (James) Vorwerk, Rapid City, SD, and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Curt was preceded in death by his parents and son Daniel.

Funeral service : Monday, November 7, 2011 at 11:00 a.m. in Our Redeemer's Lutheran Brethren Church, Minot.

Interment : Rosehill Memorial Park

Visitation : Sunday from noon until 5:00 p.m. in Thomas Family Funeral Home, Minot.

Memorials are preferred to Our Redeemer's Lutheran Brethren Church, or Our Redeemer's Christian School both of Minot.