Elden “Toke” Dexter, a father, grandfather, and friend, sadly passed away Thursday, January 23, 2025. Toke was born on March 1, 1938, in Hocking County, Ohio and grew up in Starr Township. 

Toke began his early years serving two years in the US Army where he was awarded multiple medals and awards including the Good Conduct Medal. After his years in the military, he dedicated many years to a career in construction, where he operated heavy machinery and successfully ran his own trucking business. In his younger years, he had a passion for working on cars, particularly race cars, which he enjoyed alongside his brother. He also loved fishing and hunting during this time. After retiring, Toke embraced a well-earned slower pace of life, spending time at the Moose Lodge, enjoying card games, and most importantly, cherishing moments with his family and friends, who meant the world to him.

Toke is survived by his daughter, Angie Griffin and her husband, Steve, both of Lewis Center, Ohio; son, Jerry Hite and his wife, Debbie, of New Straitsville, Ohio; daughter, Debi Tootle and her husband, Steve, of Logan, Ohio; and daughter, Sam Hendricks of Logan, Ohio.

Toke was preceded in death by his first wife, Maxine Dexter and his second wife, Della Dexter, who he was married to for nearly 30 years and loved immensely. For the past 23 years, Toke shared a relationship with Donna Coakley. Donna was always by his side, offering support and love after Della’s passing, and she brought happiness and companionship to his life.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas and Thelma Dexter, his brother, Darrel Dexter, and son-in-law, Randy Levering.  Toke is also survived by his siblings, Cherokiee (Jeff) Mohler, Charlene (Kermit) Berry, and Willie (Shelly) Dexter.

He was a grandfather to 15 grandchildren, Jeremy (Amber) Williams, Eric (Amanda) Levering, Ryan (Angela) Hite, Autumn (Jason) Spencer, Lori (Matt) Palmer, Kevin Carrier, Dustin (Jenni) Tootle, Cody Tootle, Kyle (Taylor) Hite, Alexis Hite, Tyler Roe, Jenna Roe, Trent Griffin, Max Griffin and Roman Griffin; and along with numerous great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Calling hours were held at Heinlein-Brown Funeral Home, Logan, Ohio on Wednesday, January 29, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. The funeral service took place on Thursday, January 30, 2025, at 1:00 PM, with additional calling hours from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM, prior to the service.

Toke was a remarkable man and a true friend to all, always putting his family and friends first and leading by example. He earned deep respect and admiration for his unwavering work ethic, generosity, and kindness. These qualities influenced and shaped the lives of his children and grandchildren. His steadfast dedication to those he cared about will be remembered.