John Bradley "Brad" Tobin

It is with great sorrow and profound love we announce the sudden passing of Brad (John Bradley) Tobin. He peacefully returned to the presence of his Savior, Jesus Christ on May 25th, 2026 at the age of 74.

Born on August 26th,1951 and raised in Idaho Falls, Brad was deeply influenced by the strong work ethic and values instilled in him by his parents. From an early age, he developed an entrepreneurial spirit and a deep love for baseball. While in little league, he hit four home runs during a game and held that record for many years.

He graduated High School from Skyline High (Class of 1969) and soon after began studying at Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah and soon joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. During this time, Brad’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to open a candy shop (Candy Castle) at the Logan mall, while also serving in the Army National Guard.

It was at a university singles ward in Salt Lake City where he met his beloved eternal companion, Deanne Nelson, an elementary school teacher at Edgemont Elementary. The two were later married and sealed in the Ogden Utah Temple.

As a young father, Brad began a career in real estate (McDougal Realtors). In 1983, he moved his family, and established roots in Mesa, AZ. In 2002, he left the real estate and mortgage industry to pursue a dream alongside his wife, Deanne, founding the award-winning Challenger Basic School in Gilbert, AZ.

Challenger Basic School became their life’s work and passion. Together, they devoted themselves to instilling in children a love of learning, patriotism, and moral character.

Outside of work, Brad enjoyed motorcycle trips, antique car shows, and attending baseball games. His love of adventure and travel took him and his wife to many countries and most continents, though his favorite destination was anywhere spent with his sweetheart, Deanne.

Brad loved his four children and eight grandchildren immensely. More than anything, he hoped his posterity would know of his great love for Jesus Christ and his unwavering faith in His salvation. Brad’s faith was evident in both the way he lived and the way he led. He consistently extended grace to others, reflecting the gratitude for the grace he himself had received.

Brad leaves a legacy of patriotism, childhood education, adventure, and family – all bound together by his faith in God’s enduring grace.

Brad is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Deanne Nelson Tobin; his children, Tami Peterson (Aaron), Alan Tobin (Jennifer), Natalie Tobin, and Shaun Tobin; and his eight beloved grandchildren: Keagan, Brooklyn, Micah, Brody, Brayden, Cosette, Aurelie, and Brielle. He is also survived by his siblings Diana, Hal, and Lynda. Brad was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Cleopa Tobin, and his brother, Bruce Tobin.

For those unable to attend the service in person, you will be able to view it here:

ZOOM link:

www.parkcrestward.org

Arrangements by Bunker’s University Chapel, www.bunkerfuneral.com. Should this obituary appear anywhere but bunkerfuneral.com, please check our website for accurate details and service information.