William J Tonzi

William J. Tonzi, 89, of N. Lewis St. Auburn, passed away on Thursday, September 5, 2019 at the Bishop Rehabilitation and Nursing Center in Syracuse. Mr. Tonzi was born in Auburn on May 8, 1930, to the late John P. and Catherine Vanderloo Tonzi. Over the years William was a salesman for P&R company, he co-owned  Eastern Pipe and Valve and then retired from Cayuga County Environmental Health Department.

William was an avid SU and Yankees fan and was even a referee for NCAA Basketball. He enjoyed spending his time fishing and golfing. For over 25 years, William and his friends went on their annual golfing  trip to Myrtle Beach, these were some of Williams best memories.  Not only did he enjoy golfing, but he was exceptional golfer with three hole in ones.  William’s poker skills were undeniable, he would win time and time again at the casinos. Even when Mr. Tonzi was having trouble with his health, he would go to the casino with the help of his family. Once he sat down at the table, you could see the sparkle in his eye, he became alive. For over 15 years William along with his late wife Irene would go to Las Vegas twice a year, they had the time of their lives on these trips. As soon as they returned home they began to plan their next trip back.

William is survived by his loving and devoted children, Peggy (Fred) Kruger, Terri Levine,  Susan (Byron) Dungey, Michael (Michelle ) Tonzi; his daughter-in-law, Ann Tonzi;  his  eleven grandchildren, Mike, F. John Jr., Katie, Jeff, Brianna, Alex, Beth, Kristen, Kyle, Samantha and Jacob; and his four great grandchildren, Amelia, Aiden, Lyra and Faye whom fondly referred to him as Gumpy. His sister, Catherine Woodlock;  his brother Jack Tonzi and several nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, William was predeceased by the love of his life, Irene J. Tonzi in 2015; his son William Tonzi ; and his two brothers, Richard and Don Tonzi.

Visitation will be held Monday, September 9th from 4-7pm at White Chapel Funeral Home, 197 South St. Auburn. Funeral Services will be 10am on Tuesday at the funeral home. Interment to follow at St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Fleming.  In lieu of flowers donations in Williams name may be made to Bishop Rehabilitation & Nursing Center 918 James St. Syracuse, NY 13203.

The family would like thank the loving staff at Bishop Rehabilitation & Nursing Center for the excellent and supportive care they provided for their Dad.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of William J Tonzi, please visit our floral store.