Mary Ida Tonarelli

Mary was born on August 8, 1933 to the late John and Gladys (Graham) Fraleigh. Mary graduated from Marlette High School and moved to Dearborn, MI to pursue a career at Ford Motor Company spanning 38 years. While in Dearborn, she lived with her aunt and uncle, Jean and Bill Roberts, and became the honorary older sister of Drew (Beverly) Roberts, Janet (Robert) Albert, and Gayle (Charlie) Sell (and was well known for her haircutting ability). She met the love of her life, Frank Tonarelli, on a blind date 18 months in the making. They married in November of 1959 and enjoyed 48 years together until Frank’s passing in 2008. Mary enjoyed traveling with her family and spent much of her spare time camping with her husband and family. They traveled the country with their travel trailer and motorhome for many years and took vacations to Europe and the Caribbean among other far-reaching destinations. Mary was happiest when she was “on her way” to the many activities that occupied her time. She was happiest spending time with friends and family, playing cards, fussing in the garden, or cooking up something delicious in the kitchen. Mary held a special place in her heart for baking and always had something sweet on hand. Of all her activities, her absolute favorite was any opportunity to support her three grandchildren; you would see her at all the concerts, horse shows, sporting events, and award banquets to clap and cheer them on.

Mary is survived by her daughter Ann (Gino) Rimanelli, grandchildren Gino Rimanelli, Marianna Rimanelli and Natalia Rimanelli, sister Mavis Wilcox, sisters-in-law Zina Cardella and Grace Fraleigh, and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Frank, brothers-in-law Bill Wilcox and Vito Cardella, and brother Donald Fraleigh.

The family will receive visitors from 2:00 – 8:00 PM on Monday, November 27, 2023 and from 10:00 – 11:00 AM on Tuesday, November 28, 2023 at Harry J Will Funeral Home, 37000 6 Mile Road, Livonia, Michigan 48152.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, November 28, 2023 at Harry J Will Funeral Home Livonia, Michigan 48152.

Interment will follow at Glen Eden Memorial Park, 35667 8 Mile Road, Livonia, Michigan 48152.

Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.