Margaret Toennies, age 93, passed away peacefully at home on August 20, 2026. She was surrounded by the love of a family who cherished her deeply. She lived a full and active life centered around family, faith, friendship, and community.
Margaret was born in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, on April 21, 1933, to Rose and Charles Lonsdorf. On July 9, 1955, she married James Toennies. Seven years later, they moved to Whitewater, Wisconsin, where they raised their five children.
In Whitewater, Margaret worked as an administrative assistant for medical and dental offices and was an active volunteer in her community. She was a devoted member of St. Patrick Catholic Church since 1962. She served as a greeter and participated in the prayer chain, delivered Meals on Wheels, and volunteered at the First English thrift shop.
Margaret enjoyed an active social life and treasured the many friendships she made in Sheboygan and Whitewater, Wisconsin, and Estero, Florida. She also enjoyed many years as a member of Pioneer Park Campground in Lake Delton, Wisconsin.
Always active, Margaret enjoyed tennis, swimming, cross-country skiing, water aerobics, bowling, golf, bocce ball, and playing Bridge and Sheepshead. She was a lifeguard in her younger years and remained an avid sports fan throughout her life, cheering on the Milwaukee Brewers, Wisconsin Badgers, and Whitewater Warhawks.
Above all, Margaret’s greatest joy was her family. She especially loved watching her six grandchildren participate in their many activities and sporting events and was incredibly proud to watch them grow into wonderful adults.
Margaret is survived by her children, David (Joanne) Toennies, Steven Toennies, William Toennies, and Lisa (John) Walsh; and grandchildren, Kristine Walsh, Kimberly Walsh, Bailey Toennies, Jack Toennies, Daniel Toennies, and Cole Toennies.
She was preceded in death by her husband, James Toennies; son, Robert Toennies; and brother, Joe (Elena) Lonsdorf.
A funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on September 9, 2026, at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Whitewater, Wisconsin. Visitation will be held at the church from 12:00 p.m. until the time of the service. A private burial will follow.
Those wishing to express their sympathy may make a donation in Margaret’s memory to Special Olympics Wisconsin.
Nitardy Funeral Home of Whitewater is proudly serving the family.
