Tonino Tarquini

Tonino Tarquini was born on October 12, 1939, in the village of Prata D’Ansidonia, Italy, to Antonio and Margherita (Leone) Tarquini. At the age of sixteen he courageously left his homeland for the United States, carrying with him the resilience and values that would define his life. He proudly served in the United States Army and later built a distinguished 36-year career at the Ford Rouge Steel Plant, retiring as General Foreman.

He found his greatest joy in his marriage to Christine Szymanski. Together for 59 years, they raised four daughters who were the center of his world. Tonino remained deeply connected to his Italian roots, frequently returning to Prata D’Ansidonia and sharing its traditions with his family. He took special pride in carrying the sacred icon during the village’s Parade of Saints. At home he tended his vegetable garden, canned the harvest, made his own sauce and wine from his grapevines, and loved building bonfires up north, always eager to teach others.

Above all, Tonino cherished his family. He was a constant, enthusiastic presence at his grandchildren’s sporting events, earning the affectionate title of “Team Grandpa.” He is survived by his devoted wife, Christine Tarquini; his daughters, Margaret (Kevin) Hultgren, Rosa Tarquini, Antonietta “Ann” (Wayne Langdon) Tarquini, and Marisa “Maria” (Colin) Sanborn; his grandchildren, Erica (Lee) Kennard, Jonathon (Arlee) Hultgren, Alexandra (Jack) Korowin, Emily Hultgren, Jacob Hultgren, Cobin Sanborn, Jordyn Sanborn, and Aaron Langdon; his great-grandchildren, Palmer Kennard, Arthur Tonino Hultgren, and one on the way; his brother, Franklin (Noreen) Dean Tarquini; and many loving relatives in both the United States and Italy. He was preceded in death by his parents, an infant brother, and his great-grandson, Jonathon Michael Hultgren Jr.