Obituary of Stephen John Torunski

With great sadness, the family of Stephen John Torunski of Hanwell, New Brunswick, husband of Joni Lynn (Dunphy) Torunski, announce his passing on Saturday, January 17, 2026, surrounded by his loved ones at home. Born on March 19, 1965, in Fredericton, New Brunswick, Stephen was the son of Maxine Vera (Hawkins) Torunski and the late Hans John Torunski.

Stephen devoted his working life to service and stewardship. He was employed with Greenarm Management, School District 14, and the University of New Brunswick in Facility Management, where he was respected for his reliability, problem-solving skills, and dedication. That same commitment to serving others shaped how he lived beyond his career.

A volunteer and mentor, Stephen gave generously of his time to his church and community. He was a Ski Instructor at Crabbe Mountain, a Beaver and Cub Leader, a badminton coach at Devon Middle School, a Christian Service Brigade and Youth Group Leader at Journey Wesleyan Church where he served faithfully as a drummer and sound technician, combining his love of music with his heart for worship.

When not working or volunteering, Stephen found his greatest happiness in the simple joys of family life. He treasured skiing every winter and time spent at the cottage with family and friends. An outdoorsman and craftsman at heart, he enjoyed woodworking, hiking, camping, travelling, cycling, and skiing, hobbies that reflected both his creativity and his love of adventure.

In addition to his loving wife of 37 years, Joni, and his mother, Maxine, Stephen is survived by his sons, Brandon Torunski (Jennifer) of Hanwell, Brock Torunski (Annie) of Moncton, and Brodie Torunski (Lyndsay) of Hanwell; his beloved grandchildren, Oliver, Ariel, Maddy, Jasper, and Noah Torunski; his sisters, Tara Cowan (David) of Rothesay and Cindy Torunski of Fredericton; his mother-in-law, Norma Patterson (late Arnold Dunphy and Ray Patterson); several nieces and nephews; and his dear friends, Miller and Lynn Esson and Neil and Brenda Corey.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Journey Church, 131 Duncan Lane, Fredericton, New Brunswick, on Thursday, January 22, 2026 at 2 pm with Pastor Matthew Maxwell officiating. A reception will follow. For those who wish, remembrances may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society or to the charity of the donor’s choice. Personal condolences may be offered through www.yorkfh.com