Todd LeRoy Jokinen, age 50, passed away suddenly on July 12th, 2024, at the Multicare Auburn Medical Center in Auburn, WA. He was adored as a husband, father, brother, uncle, and friend. His unexpected passing has severely dimmed the light he projected onto the lives of his family, friends, and loved ones.
Todd was born on November 14th, 1973, to Sharon and Curtis Jokinen in the bathroom of their home in SeaTac, WA. His quick birth would go on to be a running joke in his family, that Todd "just couldn't wait" and "was born on the bathroom floor". Two common participants in this joke were Todd's two older siblings: his sister Kimberly and his brother Curtis. After their father suddenly passed away, Sharon married her second husband, Ted Snyder, who was an excellent father to Todd and even left him his cherished turquoise Ford Galaxy convertible, a project the two worked on together in his youth.
As the youngest of the three, Todd had quite a sense of humor and it didn't take much effort for him to get a chuckle out of anyone. As a child, he wrote the letter "d" upside down, giving him the moniker "To99"; a nickname he used joyfully throughout his life and a term of endearment said by loved ones. His humor and sweet nature would be prominent traits throughout his life. He was patient, happy-go-lucky, and was the embodiment of joy. He was always eager to host people at his house; listening to Metallica with a cold drink in hand and cooking up something delicious in his smoker.
His lovable personality led him to his best friend of nearly 30 years: his wife Jennifer. Todd and Jennifer were married just shy of 21 years, and he would quote Forrest Gump saying he and Jenny were like "peas and carrots". Together, they accomplished a great deal. Their crowning achievements were the 3 wonderful children they shared together: Hunter (15), Nellie (12), and Milo (5). Todd always told his loved ones his biggest accomplishment in life was his family. He dreamed of being a dad, and he never took a day of his fatherhood for granted. He shined the brightest when he talked about them, and when he wasn't working as a painter at Boeing (13 years), he would be teaching Hunter how to work on the car, cheering Nellie on at one of her many softball games, or roaring like a dinosaur with Milo. Even if they were all just cruising around town in the Ford, he was happiest when he was with his family.
Being in the presence of Todd was a gift for anyone who had the chance to do so. His beaming smile and contagious laughter could cure the saddest of days, and he will be missed more than any words can express.
Todd's passing was preceded by his father Curtis, his mother Sharon, and his stepfather Ted. His memory will live on through his wife Jennifer, son Hunter, daughter Nellie, son Milo, sister Kimberly, and brother Curtis.
Todd's family would like to thank all of those who have offered their support and kind words during this very difficult time. His legacy is reflected in the love his family has received from his friends, family, and community. The outpouring of love and support has provided warmth during this time of immense loss.
Tributes
Steve millard wrote on Sep 28, 2024:
"So sorry to learn of Todds passing. I have many memories of growing up as neighbors for childhood years to carpooling to Tyee high together. He has passed to young and i will pray for his family. I purchased that old house and lived next to Ted for a few years after Sharons passing. I have alot of fond memories from that time in life. May the Lord Jesus bless your family and see you thru this unbearable time.
Sincerely ,
Steve Millard Jr. "
Glenda Peterson wrote on Jul 29, 2024:
"The void you have left will never be filled. I could not have picked a better partner for my daughter and father to three incredible kids. Your laugh and love will be missed every day. Watch over Jenny and those babies and share some memories with John."
Shane Maes wrote on Jul 29, 2024:
"I will miss you forever big brother. See you on the other side??."
Rick Peterson wrote on Jul 29, 2024:
"Todd you were the perfect husband and father to my daughter and grandkids you exceeded all my wishes for a son in law . Still can?t believe you?re gone . You will always live on in the lives of your family and friends. "