Marie Antoinette (Toni) Oats born September 18, 1914 passed away on March 1, 2010, at the age of 95.

Toni is lovingly remembered by her four children, Maryteen (Bill) Dodge, Muriel (Mike) McGoran, Bernard (Pat) Johnston and Don (Leslee) Johnston; nine grandchildren, eight great grandchildren; 2 great great-grandchildren; her brother Roland; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by the love of her life, Julian Thomas Oats, her parents, Rosanna and Paul Major, one brother, John, and one sister, Rose Eva.

Toni was born in Athabasca, Alberta. She lived in Edmonton and Salmo. Toni and Tom moved to Merritt in 1961 where she turned a dirt pile into a beautifully terraced yard, flourishing with roses, flowers and vegetables that she tended for over forty years. Friends and neighbors could always count on a good cup of tea and yummy baking when they dropped by. Toni was well known to be able to lay out the most delicious meal at a moments notice and for the beautiful baby outfits she knitted for the hospital and her family.

Toni volunteered many hours in the community of Merritt. She was a member of the Catholic Women's League, Eastern Star, Nicola Valley Hospital Auxiliary and The Lions Club. She was always there to lend a hand, whether it is to bake apple pies or to cater a function. She was a tireless worker and an inspiration to us all. Just after her 94th birthday she moved from the family home into Nicola Meadows. There, she was well taken care of by their kind and considerate staff.

The family would like to thank all Toniís friends, the ladies from the Catholic Church, the staff of Nicola Meadows, the staff at N.V.H., Dr. van der Mere, and also the staff at Overlander Residential Care for their caring attention to Toni.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, March 5, 2010 at 11:00 a.m. in the Sacred Heart Church, 2326 Jackson Avenue, Merritt.

Condolences may be expressed at: www.schoenings.com

Arrangements entrusted to Schoening Funeral Service, telephone 250-374-1454.