Obituary of Eli Anthony Tonini

Eli Tonini of San Leandro passed on November 16, 2017 in Oroville at age 95.

He is survived by niece Janice Hill (husband Aaron), nephews John Pagano (wife Linda), Robert Pagano, grand-nephews Tyson Hill, Kevin Pagano (wife Cori).
 
Preceding him in death were his wife of 60 years Theresa Elsie, Italian immigrant parents, Antonio and Rose Tonini, stepfather Frank Alasia, and sister Carol Tomicich (Trefon).

Eli was born in 1921 at home in Hayward. As a child he worked with his stepfather taking care of the rabbits and chickens at the California Home Rabbitry in Hayward during the depression. He graduated from Hayward High School in 1939. During World War II, Eli served for 3 1/2 years in the US Army with the 355th Bomber Squadron in the US and in Guam. He flew in B29's.
 
Eli lived in San Leandro for 63 years. He worked as Building & Grounds Supervisor for the San Lorenzo Unified School District for 35 years until his retirement in 1983. He was a member of the Buon Tempo Club, Columbo Club and San Leandro Branch of ICF. As an Oakland A's fan, he would be at the Coliseum for Wednesday afternoon baseball games. He was a caring man and a hardworking and devoted husband and a lover of plants who raised and shared beautiful orchids. His beloved dog, Tigee, was very special to him.
 
The family is most appreciative of the wonderful care that Eli received from Daniela's Country Home Care in Oroville for 4 1/2 years, Hayward Convalescent for 4 years and HomeAide Home Care.

Mass will be celebrated at 9:30 am on December 18th at St. Leander Catholic Church, 474 W. Estudillo Avenue, San Leandro. Inurnment will follow at 12:20 pm at Calvary Catholic Cemetery, 1100 Hillcrest Road, Hollister.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Alzheimer's
medical research charity of your choice.