Tonita A. Hendrickson

Tonita A. “Toni” Hendrickson, age 78 loving Mother, Grandmother and friend passed peacefully into eternal life on Sunday, April 21st she was surrounded by loving family after she fought a courageous battle with multiple serious health issues. Toni was born on December 4, 1934 in Minocqua, WI the daughter of Anthony and (nee Steinbach) Brickel. Tonita was a lifelong resident of Minocqua. She graduated from the University of Superior. She was a junior High health and P.E. teacher in Fond du Lac at Sabish Jr. High School. After years of teaching she returned to Minocqua to raise her family and teach in the Lakeland area. Among teaching, she had a passion for swimming, tennis among other sports. She was a lifeguard at Torpy beach and taught many kids, including her grandchildren how to swim. Tonita loved spending time with her family, but especially her Grandchildren. Her life revolved around the sports they participated in. Known lovingly as the “Hockey Gram”, most knew she never missed any games they played in. If she could not see the games in Chicago, she called immediately to know and hear the play by play. Anyone who knew Toni, knows one of her biggest attributes was her ability to make friends. She loved to talk to anyone and was a great listener. She had a smile that would light up a room and a contagious laugh. Survivors include her Brother, Robert Brickel and Her two Sons: David and Richard Hendrickson and two Daughters: Teresa (Scott) Gwidt and Debi (Sean) O’Leary and by seven Grandchildren: Christian, Leigh, Brent, Brandon, Ruby, Aidan and Alexis. Tonita will join her parents; Anthony and Anne Brickel and her Sister, Antoinette Schmitz in Heaven. Tonita’s family invites family and friends to celebrate her life on Friday, April 26th at 11:00 AM at Nimsgern Funeral Home Chapel with a luncheon to follow. Visitation is from 9:00 AM till time of service at 11:00 AM. In lieu of flowers memorial donations to Seasons of Life Hospice House, Lakeland Food Pantry or St. Jude’s Hospital. Online condolences may be shared at www.nimsgernfuneral.com NIMSGERN FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES IS SERVING THE FAMILY.