Thomas Daniel Ponko, 73, of Afton, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully on June 8, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Born on March 4, 1953, in Mount Pleasant, Pennsylvania, Tom lived a life defined by service, dedication, adventure, and an unwavering love for his family. A proud Navy veteran, devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, he touched countless lives through his generosity, strength, and willingness to help others.

Tom proudly served his country in the United States Navy for 30 years as a submarine officer, retiring with the rank of Lieutenant Commander. His military career reflected the values that guided his life—honor, commitment, perseverance, and leadership. Even after retirement, he remained dedicated to supporting fellow veterans through his involvement with the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), American Legion, Disabled American Veterans (DAV), Military Officers Association of America, the Masonic Lodge, and the Knights of Columbus.

On October 13, 2007, Tom married Claudia Lynne (Everitt) Ponko. Together they built a life filled with love, laughter, friendship, and countless cherished memories. Their years together were marked by a deep devotion to one another and a shared appreciation for family, faith, and life’s adventures.

Outside of his military service, Tom embraced life with enthusiasm. He loved farming and working the land, playing guitar, golfing, riding motorcycles, and spending time outdoors. He enjoyed telling stories, sharing laughs, and bringing people together. Whether offering advice, lending a hand, or simply being present when someone needed him, Tom was a dependable source of strength for those around him.

Above all else, Tom was devoted to his family. He was a loving father to Jeffrey Ponko and Kimberly Black and her husband, Josh. He was a proud grandfather to Sydney Ponko, David, Natalie, and Joshua, and a cherished great-grandfather to Temperance, Emmit, Erabella, and Esmay. His family brought him immense pride and joy, and some of his happiest moments were spent watching them grow and succeed.

Tom is also survived by his brother, Francis “Buddo” Ponko and his wife, Louise; his sisters, Virginia “Ginny” Puskar and her husband, Bob, Marianne Bailey and her husband, Leonard “Peanuts,” and Sue Senko and her husband, Ed; his sister-in-law, Mary Ponko; his brother-in-law, Roger Everitt; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Bernard Anthony Ponko Sr. and Kathryn Marie (Albright) Ponko; his brothers, Jerome B. Ponko and Bernard A. Ponko Jr.; and his nephews, Ryan Senko and B.J. Farrell.

Tom also leaves behind his beloved service dog, Lucy, whose loyal companionship brought him comfort, joy, and unconditional love throughout the years.

Those who knew Tom will remember a man of integrity, humor, courage, and compassion. His legacy lives on through the family he loved, the country he proudly served, and the many lives he touched.

To his family, he was more than a veteran, farmer, and friend—he was our rock, our teacher, and our greatest supporter.