Suzanne L. Tonon

Born on Feb. 26, 1952, Sue spent 51 years married to her devoted husband James Tonon, who loved her deeply and will miss her more than words can say. Together they raised three children — Jan Tonon, Jason Tonon (Sarah), and Jacquelyn Pangilinan (Lester), who all agree that Sue accepted and loved them unconditionally and made sure they had the right sense of humor to get through life. She never failed to answer every one of their many phone calls, patiently listening to them vent about their latest problem and never once changing her number! She also perfected her role as Grandma to 12-year-old twins Jack and Ivy Tonon, and Noah (21) and Simon (18) Pangilinan, who will forever miss her snacks, jokes, and willingness to let them get away with things their parents never would. And there is no better proof of Sue’s likeability than the fact that she was thoroughly embraced by all her in-laws, possibly surpassing her husband in their eyes!

Sue was a wonderful cook, a talented artist, and an expert at yelling answers at the TV during Jeopardy. She was also fascinated by true crime shows, often worrying her husband by how much she knew about disposing of a dead body. Her pantry was always overflowing, her sense of humor was hysterically inappropriate, and anybody who knew her could see that her love language was acts of service. Sue sincerely enjoyed the little things, having correctly believed they are what truly matter in living a rich and meaningful life. She didn’t need much to make her happy, just her family, her long-time friends, and maybe some peppermint ice cream. Her greatest achievement was the family she raised. She was a stay-at-home mom who gave her kids the freedom to be exactly who they are and who created a home they were always happy to come back to.

Sue is survived by her only sibling, sister Kristine Durante (Bill), whom she loved and shared many laughs with. In addition to her four grandchildren, she leaves behind her nephews Matthew Vancour and Christopher Vancour, Danny Stevens (Sandi), niece Holly Pirrotta (Santo), grandnephews Alex and Paolo Pirrotta, grandnieces Sophia Pirrotta and Phoebe Stevens, as well as many cousins, family members, and close friends whom she cherished.

She will be deeply missed and forever in our hearts.

All are invited to the celebration of Sue’s life on Friday, Sept. 26, 11:00 a.m., at St. Matthew Roman Catholic Church, 120 Church Ave., Bristol, CT 06010. The family will receive friends and relatives at the church from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service at 11:00 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial contribution to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital in loving memory of Suzanne Tonon.