John Charles Toth, age 92, of Salem, Illinois, passed away on Saturday, September 19, 2026. He was born on January 24, 1934.
John proudly served his country as a United States Marine during the Korean War. Following his military service, he completed pilot training in Miami, Florida, and earned his private pilot’s license at Salem Leckrone Airport.
A lifelong aviation enthusiast, John had a particular appreciation for military aircraft from the 1950s, the era in which he served. He enjoyed seeing those historic planes take to the skies again and once had the opportunity to fly aboard some of the old war aircraft during an air show at Scott Air Force Base. Flying and building ultralight airplanes became a passion of his, and he enjoyed sharing that love of aviation with his children by taking them along on flights when they were young.
While serving in the Marines, John lived in Miami, Florida, before eventually settling in Salem. He worked for Western Electric from the 1960s through the 1980s. John and his family also owned and operated a trailer park in Salem for many years.
John was a hardworking and independent man who built his life around his family, his work, and the things he loved. He and his wife, Elaine, enjoyed traveling together when they were younger. They also shared a special love for their two golden retrievers, Max and Jake, who were much more than pets and were truly members of the family.
John was the father of six children: Gary May; Richard Toth and wife Nancy Austin; Michael Toth and fiancé Dawn Jayne; Elizabeth Toth and husband Quanah Parker; Joanna Toth; and James Toth and wife Carrie Toth. He was also a proud grandfather to Joshua Toth, Cody Austin, Kurtis Borowiak, Allison Toth, and Ian Toth. His brother, Patrick Toth, and his wife, Andrea, also survive.
John was preceded in death by his son, Gary May; grandson, Joshua Toth; brothers, George “Pike” Toth and Ed Toth; his parents, John and Madeline (Hartman) Toth; and his stepmother, Hazel (Orr) Toth.
John will be remembered for his service to his country, his lifelong love of aviation, his hardworking, independent nature, and, most of all, the life and family he built over his 92 years.
Graveside services for John Charles Toth will be held on Thursday, September 24, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. at Paradise Cemetery in Salem, with Phil Martin officiating. There will be military rites by the Salem American Legion. Memorial Contributions can be made to the VA and will be received at Crouse Funeral Home in Salem, which is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences and memories can be left at www.CrouseFH.com.
