Antoinette “Tony” M. Tenney, 92, formerly of Phillips, WI, passed away Monday, September 28th, 2015 at Our House in Chippewa Falls.
Tony was born on May 29th, 1923 to Paul and Johanna (Yurik) Gurka in Phillips, WI. She spent as much time on the “farm” as life allowed, and summers were her favorite time of year. She married William “Bill” Tenney on January 6th, 1944 in Edmore, MI. They moved around while Bill served in the Marines living in both California and North Carolina. She always enjoyed coming back home and would take her family home to enjoy their grandmother and uncle.
Tony was an avid treasure hunter and would find four leaf clovers and press them between pages of books to save them. She would also pick mushrooms and wild berries in the fall and would make homemade jelly out of the berries. She taught her son Michael just the right way to find these treasures in the woods.
Always a helper to family and friends she was loved by all who touched her life, whether it have been through her volunteering, sewing quilts, or bread and cookie baking. Tony loved caring for people and animals, especially her kitties and arfies. The best part of Tony though was her smile and gratitude, always a thank you for any little favor she received. Her wreaths at Christmas, the fruits and vegetables she preserved, and the way she tried to make life easier for all of us will be missed. Always a storyteller, Tony shared many memories that will keep her alive in our hearts.
Tony is survived by her children; Pat (Jim) Moss of Eleva, Ginger (Jim) Harings of Chippewa Falls, Bill (Sally) Tenney of Eau Claire, Kathy Cliff of Eau Claire, John (Debbie) Tenney of Highlands Ranch, CO; Suzie (Jeff) Covil of Eau Claire, and Bob Tenney of Eau Claire. She is also survived by 18 grandchildren and several great grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.
Tony was preceded in death by her parents; her husband William “Bill” Tenney; her son Michael Tenney; siblings, Anne Miller, Cecila Polder, Andrew Gurka; grandchildren, Tyler Thorson, Holly Harings, and Richard Krueger.
Memorial services will be on Friday, October 2nd, 2015 at noon at Smith Funeral Chapel, 2222 London Rd, Eau Claire. Visitation will be from 10:00 am until the time of service at the funeral home on Friday. Burial will be at Sacred Heart Cemetery following the service. Reverend Ed Shuttleworth will be officiating. Smith Funeral Chapel is assisting the family. Friends and family may leave online condolences at www.smithfuneralec.com.
Gramma, you were an AMAZING woman, full of strength and so much love and compassion for your family, friends, and just life itself. You will forever be in my heart!
Grandma, You always did so much for your family and friends without expectation of anything in return. I have so many memories of you and the times we spent together. Fishing, frogging, and lets not forget the berry picking to mention a few. You loved your family and friends with all your heart. I am going to miss you but I know you are in a much better place with Grandpa, Uncle Mike and others. Rest now in love and please know you will always be in my heart! I love you! !!
Momma,
I remember all the times you sat on my bed and we held hands, I could feel the warmth of your heart in your hands and the satisfying look in your face. I’ll always remember mushroom picking and berry picking when you lived on Neptune Ave, we had a lot of fun. I can remember the blowing out of eggs with Tammi’s help, the construction of rabbits and the decoupaging of the egg shells. I can remember the long walks that we had and how much fun we did have. Our walks to the cemetery to see Dad, Uncle Andy, and let’s not forget baby sister. I can remember all the times you asked me to comb your hair and scratch your back all in the labor of love. Momma, I will always miss you and care for you and my last though is when you were at University Hospital with me in Minnesota, when I asked you what was the sun looking like and you said the sun looks like the sun all the day through, a little touch of laughter we had in a very trying time. I can remember the times you helped me to construct clothes for my children with true guidance and love. You are the love of my life and you will always be in my heart! Love your loving daughter, Kathleen
Im going to miss seeing you everyday. You were an amazing woman and always knew how to put a smile on my face. Ill make sure the lights are off and the cats are fed. RIP Tony ❤
Ginger and family i am sorry for your loss.
To all my Tenney cousins, I send my thoughts and prayers. I have so many wonderful memories of your Mom. I hope your memories of her will be held deep in your hearts. My prayers are with you.
Jackie Polder