Tony Bonelli

Tony Bonelli, age 88, of Hibbing passed away Friday, September 25, 2026, at Essentia St. Mary’s in Duluth. He was born August 1, 1938, in Kitzville, MN to Anton and Maria (Ciurleo) Bonelli. Tony was a 1956 graduate of Hibbing High School and attended Hibbing Junior College. Following graduation Tony worked at several establishments including the Gopher and State Theater. While working at the State Theater he met his future wife, Susan Lahti, they were married on August 28, 1965. In October 1961 Tony joined the Army and served until his honorable discharge in 1963. Tony worked briefly for the City of Hibbing, Hawkinson Tire Service, Sarff & Wagner (Later Salo-Degnan) and finally Hibbing Salvage, until his retirement. For most of his career he was a truck driver, delivering pipes and other supplies to numerous mines in the area. He enjoyed crossword puzzles, hunting (in his younger years) and fishing and reading his many books, but science fiction was his favorite genre. Tony was quick to tell a joke and always willing to lend a hand to those who needed it. Tony is survived by his children, Lisa (Donald Rich) Bonelli, Mark Bonelli, numerous nieces and nephews, friends, John Gargano, Shaddy Ruzich, Don Aas, Cowboy Sampson, and the McDonalds Coffee Crew (past and present). He was preceded in death by his parents Anton and Maria, wife, Susan, in 2024, 8 brothers and 4 sisters of the blended Barcelona/Bonelli family and nephew, Sam Bonelli Jr., who was raised and grew up alongside Tony. Graveside service for Tony and Susan will be held Friday, October 23, 2026, at 11 am, at Maple Hill Cemetery in Hibbing.