Antoinette "Toni" Judith (Simon) Grodi

In Loving Memory of Antoinette Judith Grodi

It is with heavy hearts but deep gratitude for a life well-lived that we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved mother, Antoinette Judith Grodi, on March 21st, 2024, at the age of 72. Surrounded by the love of her family, she transitioned from this world to the next, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness, and grace.

Antoinette, affectionately known as Toni, entered the world on June 22nd, 1951, in Toledo, Ohio, born to Roy and Dolores (Quinn) Simon. After graduating from Central Catholic High School in 1969, Toni eventually embarked on a dedicated career at First Energy, where she served as an Administrative Associate until her well-earned retirement in 2016.

Toni was a dedicated single mother whose love knew no bounds. Her children, Michelle, John, Amanda, and Rebecca were the center of her world, and she poured her heart and soul into nurturing, guiding, and supporting them every step of the way. She was their greatest cheerleader, always there with open arms and a listening ear, ready to offer love, encouragement, and advice, unequivocally without judgment. 

As a grandmother (Nana), Toni found immeasurable joy in the presence of her grandchildren. She delighted in spoiling them with love and hugs and creating precious memories, such as the annual grandkids sleepover, and Christmas cookie decorating get-togethers that she loved to host.

Toni had a passion for her home on Lockwood Avenue. There was a standing open door policy, and all were welcome. She loved her pool in the summer, as well as tending her garden with all of Grandma Simon’s flowers. She was an avid reader and loved relaxing on her porch to dive into her stories, and keep an eye on neighborhood happenings. 

Christmas was a special time full of family heritage. Toni continued her grandmother’s tradition of making Galettes (made with a special iron brought over from Belgium), as well as peanut brittle made from her grandfather’s recipe. Continuing in her mother’s footsteps, she was devoted to making and giving these treats to friends and family near and far. 

In Toni’s last days, she spent over a week in Mercy Health - Heart and Vascular Institute’s ICU. The staff there took such special care of her. Especially cherished were Dr. Elder, nurses Anjo, Jeremy, and Jessica, and Respiratory Therapist Rachelle. Their precious care of our mother meant the world to us. Toni astounded the staff with her strength and endurance. She was one of a few conscious patients in their charge, and they affectionately nicknamed her “Toni the Tank.” Even in her final days, Toni’s stamina and perseverance echoed the resilience that defined every aspect of her life.

Toni leaves behind a legacy of love that will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her. While we mourn her passing, we also celebrate the beautiful life she lived and the countless lives she touched along the way. She exemplified unwavering love, support, and faith in God. May her memory be a blessing, and may we strive to honor her legacy by living each day with the same love, kindness, and non-judgmental support that she so effortlessly embodied. It is time for us to “let go, and let God” as she encouraged us to do so very often. 

Toni was preceded in death by her parents Dolores and Roy Simon, infant brother John, aunt and uncle Rosemary and Jim Quinn, nieces Adrienne Simon, Amy Simon, and great niece Ali Simon.

Those left to cherish her memory include her children, Michelle (Rich) Gasiorski, No. 1 Son John (Tabetha) Varwig, Amanda Hargreaves, and Rebecca (Jeff) Coker; Grandchildren, Jordan, Jacob, Ainsley, Benjamin, Tristan, Sydney, Jourdan, Gabriel, Neva, Lucas, Jackson, Kennedy, and Lincoln; Great Grandchildren, Cass, Jett, and Braxton; Siblings, Michael (Joan) Simon, Edward (Cindy) Simon, Cheryl (Mike) Schroeder, William Simon, Joseph (Wendy) Simon, Katherine (favorite brother-in-law John) Castillo; Cousins, Jackie Quinn, Mike (Terri) Quinn; a host of beloved nieces and nephews; former son-in-law Matthew Hargreaves; and many dear neighbors and friends.

Toni’s family will receive friends at the Castillo Funeral Home 1757 Tremainsville Rd. Tuesday after 3 PM followed by a Scripture Service and Sharing of Memories at 7 PM. Funeral Mass will be celebrated Wednesday at Most Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church 2240 Castlewood Dr. Toledo at 1 PM.

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