October 12, 1948 – April 9, 2025
It is with heavy hearts that the family of Antoniette “Toni” Aurora Polito (née Tegola) announces her peaceful passing on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, at the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre, at the age of 76, after a short but courageous battle with cancer.
Toni was born on October 12, 1948, in Grimaldi, Cosenza, Italy, to Eugenio and Giustina Tegola. She spent her early years in Italy before immigrating to Port Arthur, Ontario in 1958. She attended St. Andrew’s Elementary School and later graduated from Hillcrest High School.
In 1969, Toni met the love of her life, Mario Polito. After a six-month courtship, they were married on September 20, 1969. Together, they built a beautiful life and raised three children: Danny (Susan), Ricky (Quy), and Sandra (Carlo), who were the pride and joy of her life. Her love extended endlessly to her six cherished grandchildren: Nicholas, Jasmin, Anthony, Jessica, Tiana, and Daniel.
Toni was a dedicated and compassionate clerk in the admitting departments at McKellar Hospital, and later at Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre, where she proudly served for over 30 years. She was known for her kindness, patience, and professionalism, and she made a meaningful impact on the lives of countless patients and coworkers.
Toni had a gift for creating warmth and joy in every moment. She was known for her delicious pancakes—an all-time favorite of her grandchildren—and for her love of crafts and art, passions she eagerly shared with those around her. She was happiest outdoors, especially on long walks with her beloved dog, Chiachi.
She had a deep love for travel and enjoyed exploring new places with family and friends, including memorable trips to Germany, Italy, Vietnam, and Arizona. One of her favorite places to relax and connect with loved ones was her brother’s camp at Eldorado Beach, where many treasured memories were made.
Family traditions meant everything to Toni. From the annual tomato sauce weekends to regular family meals and celebrations, she found deep purpose and joy in bringing her family together. Her home was filled with love, laughter, and the kind of comfort only she could provide.
Toni is survived by her loving husband, Mario; her children and grandchildren; and her brothers Tony (Gladys) and Mario (Nancy). She was predeceased by her parents, Giustina and Eugenio Tegola. Also survived by numerous cousins, nephews and nieces.
The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to Dr. Delpaggio, nurses Amy and Sarah of Unit 1A, and all the dedicated staff at Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre for their care and compassion. We also want to thank two nurses who have helped Toni with guidance from day one to understand what was happening. The family would like to say a special thank you to Carol Murray and Rachel Duclos. These two nurses were there from the beginning to the end of Toni’s journey, helping her understand MRI and Cat scans and aiding her and her family in any way they could.
A visitation will be held on Wednesday, April 16, 2025 from 10:00 until 11:00 a.m., followed by a service beginning at 11:00 a.m. in the chapel of Sargent & Son Funeral Home, 21 N. Court Street. Those who are unable to attend may do so on the Sargent and Son Facebook page. A private interment will follow. Donations in remembrance of Toni can be made to the Canadian Cancer Society in hopes to save another one’s life with research and treatment. Online condolences may be expressed at www.sargentandson.com.
Toni’s legacy of love, strength, and family will live on in all who knew her.
