Antonette “Toni” Tower

life story

“If there ever comes a day when we can’t be together, keep me in your heart, I’ll stay there forever”

-A.A. Milne

About Toni

Antonette “Toni” Tower, born Antonette Kingsley in June of 1969, the daughter of Michael and Marti Kingsley, older sister to Jackie, and mother of John and Allysa, departed this earthly life on Friday, March 8th, 2024 at the age of 54. Her family along with many dear friends share a deep sorrow, and profound sense of loss due to her unexpected passing.

Toni carried her love of her family and her many wonderful friends along the path of her life. Toni loved unconditionally, and accepted others for who they were, flaws and all. She was easy to like as she had an infectious signature smile that helped put others at ease, and she unapologetically brought her unique energy everywhere she went. Toni was authentic, and marched to the beat of her own drum. She never tried to be anyone except for herself. Toni was a daughter, sister, aunt, mother and devoted grandmother. She was also a friend to many, Toni will be remembered for all the heart she shared with her family and friends. She truly loved each of them- and if you knew her, you knew it.

Toni was a genuine person who connected easily with others. She was present, focused, and interested in those around her. Toni loved spending time with loved ones. Toni was a devoted grandmother to her grandson Sage who was the light of her life, and whom she loved as “big as the sky.” Toni believed in the power of laughter. She never missed an opportunity to amuse those around her and share in a moment of contagious laughter. She laughed indulgently, and never took herself to seriously. She enjoyed laughing—and a lot of times, at her own expense. We can all agree that we will miss her unique sense of humor and her friendly laugh.

Toni was fascinated by the natural world, teaching her children John and Allysa, and most recently, her grandson Sage, about the value of the world around us. Sage and Toni recently built a bunny shelter at her home so the bunnies would have a safe winter refuge. Toni loved nature and all of her creatures. An avid birdwatcher, watching birds closely gave her a deep appreciation for the intelligence that exists in our natural world. Toni had a special affection for raptors and crows. Raptors captured her attention due to their large size, soaring abilities, and symbolic representation of strength, grace, courage, and freedom. Toni thought crows were awesome, and always had a crow fun fact to back it up such as, “Crows can make tools. They are one of only four species that can craft tools: humans, orangutans, chimpanzees and New Caledonian crows.” We hope whenever you see an eagle, hawk, or crow, you will think of Toni. She would have liked that.

Toni had a green thumb and took great pride in growing the most beautiful Zinnia’s, often times starting them with great care in her home until they were ready to be transplanted in nature. This tradition started with her children, and was most recently shared with her grandson, Sage. While the zinnia flower has many different meanings, it is usually associated with friendship, endurance, daily remembrance, goodness, and lasting affection. It is no wonder Toni felt a fondness for the zinnia flower. A bouquet of these bright flowers will send a message that you care and will always be there as a friend.

Passionate about music, Toni was an avid lover of music. Toni’s musical taste would be described as eclectic because it spanned many different genres such as heavy metal, Motown, Hip Hop, and even a little Country. She was able to find value in all types of music, and never passed up an opportunity to do a little jig. Since we are on the topic of doing a jig, we would be remiss if we didn’t mention how proud she was of her Irish Heritage. Being Irish was very much a part of who she was. She deeply believed that if you were lucky enough to be Irish, you’re lucky enough.

Toni worked as an appliance specialist, and manager at A+ Plus Appliance for 24 years. She enjoyed building meaningful relationships with many long term employees, and helping her many loyal customers. She truly loved, and cherished her A+ Plus Family. It was at A+ Plus where she met two of her dearest friends, the late David “Big D” Doepner, and the late Norman Beaudry. We are sure without doubt, they were both there, along with many others, to welcome her to heaven. Toni was never scared to take on new opportunities, or challenges and did everything with honesty and integrity. Toni had very strong values and was well liked by everyone, and always made time to help others. She never needed a reason to help people. She derived much happiness from making others feel happy and valued.

Toni is survived by her Parents, Michael and Marti (Robinson) Kingsley, younger sister Jackie Kingsley, children John Tower & Allysa Siegler, and her grandson, Sage Pagel. She will be missed each and every day, for she was so special and meant more than words can say. Toni was devoted to her children, and grandson. They were her most precious treasures. She loved them all “as big as the sky.” Toni was proud of many things in her life, but nothing more than being a mother and grandmother. Her love knew no boundaries, limitations, or conditions. Her love for them will never end, it is there from beginning to end.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Toni's honor to the University of Minnesota Raptor Center using the donation link below. Please also take a moment to familiarize yourself with the risk factors and warning signs of a Brain Aneurism at https://www.bafound.org/about-brain-aneurysms/brain-aneurysm-basics/warning-signs-symptoms/

Please join us in celebrating Toni’s life on Sunday, April 21st from 1-4 at the Mille Lacs Indian Museum and Trading Post (43411 Oodena Dr, Onamia, MN 56359).

memorial service

Toni's Celebration of Life

April 21, 2024

Mille Lacs Indian Trading Post 43411 Oodena Dr, Onamia, MN 56359, USA

Please join us in celebrating Toni’s life on Sunday, April 21st from 1-4 at the Mille Lacs Indian Museum and Trading Post (43411 Oodena Dr, Onamia, MN 56359).

Funeral/Cremation Provider: Crescent Tide Cremation Services