"Dear Donna and family, I never met your mother, but through knowing you, Donna, I feel I have known her. I am so very sorry for your loss. Your beautiful mother will be missed, but remembered and known through all of you. Please know that you, and your mother, are in my prayers. May you all find peace and grace through this time as you remember and celebrate her wonderful life and the gifts she gave you!! Much love, Wendy Nichols"
In loving memory of
Antonetta "Toni" Sapanaro
November 12, 1940 - December 12, 2022
On December 12, 2022, God gained a small-but-mighty angel, as Antonetta (Toni) Sapanaro passed away peacefully in the company of her family, at the age of 82.
She was born to Nicola and Margaret Mottolese in Cleveland, Ohio on November 12th 1940.
Raised a devout Catholic, she received a religious education, attending Marymount high school. She then studied business administration at Fenn College, which led to a successful career in accounting.
Toni met her husband Nick on New Year's Eve, 1962. They were married in 1965, had 3 children, and soon moved their young family to Scottsdale, Arizona, where Toni spent the remainder of her life. The years that followed were spent making memories: family vacations, building a home and balancing her career and family. She loved to cook, watch old movies, listen to music and dance.
Toni was an incredibly warm and loving wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. Outgoing, friendly and funny, her presence filled the room. Those who knew her will forever miss the sound of her infectious laugh, and the warmth of her hugs. Generous with her time, fiercely loyal, and never shy with her opinion - Toni was truly one-of-a-kind; never to be forgotten. Her confidence and spirit barely able to be contained by her tiny frame. Toni's family and friends cry tears of sorrow for having lost her, and tears of joy for having known her.
She is survived by her husband Nick of 57 years, her beloved son Nick Jr. (who passed away in 2020 and is forever missed) daughters Donna and Lisa, son-in-law Scott, and granddaughter Elle. She also leaves behind her sister Anna, and loving nieces and nephews.
A funeral service will take place in Phoenix, and a celebration of life will be held in Cleveland, with further details regarding both to come.