Toni Ellis

Toni Ellis

Jan. 21, 1935 - Aug. 17, 2024

Toni Ellis (born January 21, 1935) passed from this life on earth into her eternal life with Jesus on August 17, 2024. She was 89 years old.

Born in Brooklyn, New York, as the eldest of two children to Arthur and Madeline (Mary) Chenes, Toni grew up and lived most of her life in Southern California followed by long stints in Minnesota and Colorado. She is survived by her children, Dale & Sue Witherington and Debbie Edwards; her grandchildren, Dale R. & Izzy Witherington, Drew & Anna Witherington, Dan & Rebecca Witherington, Ashley & Lowell Zachman, John & Hannah Edwards and Kristine Edwards; and her 11 great-grandchildren Aeyllo Witherington, London Witherington, Leighton Witherington, Waylin Witherington, Vincent Zachman, Weston Zachman, Bridger Zachman, Moselle Edwards, Lily Edwards, Piper Edwards and Clark Edwards.

Known for her infectious and contagious laughter, as well as her ear-piercing whistles at her children's and grandchildren's sporting events, Toni enjoyed successful careers in the restaurant, banking, legal and senior housing industries. But her passions were her family, bowling, playing cards and playing the slots at local casinos. One of her major highlights was in the early 1990's when she was both the Minnesota Singles Bowling Champion, as well as the Doubles Champion with her daughter, Debbie.

Toni loved Jesus. While she was anything but a traditional "religious practitioner," she maintained a fervent prayer and devotional life. Her public memorial service is scheduled for Friday evening, September 27, 2024, from 6-7:30 at Christ Church Otsego, 15849 90th St. NE, Otsego, MN 55330.