Theodore Tofari

Theodore 'Ted' Tofari Sr., age 95 of Montello passed away early Tuesday morning, September 25, 2012 at the Montello Care Center. Ted was born in Tulsa, Oklahoma on September 10, 1917 to Angelo and Leah (Papineau) Tofari. He attended St. Patrick's Catholic School in Kankakee, IL and later graduated from high school from Herscher High School in Herscher, IL. On October 17, 1936 Ted married Geraldine Wilson in Kankakee and it wasn't until 1949 that they moved to Montello. Ted farmed for himself for many years and later also worked for Brakebush for 36 years. He enjoyed gardening, dancing as well as calling square dances. Ted also enjoyed the outdoors, fishing, hunting and spending time with his animals. He will be remembered for his way of wearing many different hats and telling jokes. Survivors include his wife of almost 76 years, Geraldine and four children: Theodore Jr. (Janie) of Seabrook, SC, Leabelle (Bruce) Matthews of Montello, James (Donna) of Montello and Patricia Wincell of Montello. Ted is survived by thirteen grandchildren and numerous great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren. He is further survived by many nieces, nephews and many dear friends. Ted is preceded in death by his parents, son-in-law, Raymond Wincell, granddaughter, Cheryl Tofari and one brother, Elmo. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, September 28, 2012 at 11:00 a.m. at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Montello. Visitation will be held from 9:30 a.m. until the hour of service. Father Dave Carrano will preside and burial will follow the service at the Montello City Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to the family. Crawford Funeral Home of Montello is honored to serve the family. Please visit www.CrawfordFH.com to send an online condolence and view obituaries and other up-to-date funeral information.

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Previous Events

Mass of Christian Burial
Friday, September 28, 2012
Visitation
Friday, September 28, 2012
Burial
Friday, September 28, 2012