Toni Vanmillingen
It is with profound sadness we share that on June 4, 2026 Toni Vanmillingen at the age of 92, tragically and unexpectedly left this world but left behind the many people he loved and who loved him with so many cherished memories.
Toni had a twinkle in his eye and a mischievous Dutch smirk that usually meant he was up to no good.
Toni’s life was filled with so many experiences. A full childhood in Holland with his family, travelling to Canada and starting his life here. Toni worked in body shops and built his own shop and house, all the time making friends and becoming part of his Canadian family (John, Nellie and Mary Vandenberg). Coffee time and morning waterskiing on Lake Whittaker were always part of Toni’s days. Toni excelled at waterskiing and competed here and abroad.
As Toni always said he stopped being a body man (he was the best) when they stopped making real cars and started making plastic. He turned his interests to collecting antiques. Buying selling and trading. He had a permanent number (35) at Shackelton’s and loved the auctions. His passion was oil lamps especially cast iron, but architectural antiques became his addiction. Toni dismantled and resurrected buildings from the area some as far away as California.
You could not go on a drive without Toni pointing out a place he took down a building and explaining the history and where it is now.
Toni’s life was filled with love and kindness to all he knew and cherished. Happiest when surrounded by family, extended family and friends. His biggest smile was reserved for his Daniel nieces and his grandchildren and when they left, he gave them a big hug and whispered “I love you! Come again.”
Each night of the 30 years with his partner/wife Vicki before he fell asleep, he would whisper “Goodnight. See you in the morning. I love you”
He will be missed.
As per Toni’s wishes cremation has taken place and in lieu of a service there will be a Celebration of Life at Toni’s special piece of paradise on Avon Drive at a future date where we hope all can join the family and share your memories.
In lieu of flowers, those wishing to make a donation in memory of Toni are asked to consider “Animalert Pet Adoptions”, website Animalert.ca