Toni R. (Robinson) Foster Obituary (1945

Toni Rae (Robinson) Foster, of Wisconsin Rapids, WI, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, November 1, 2023, at Aspirus Riverview Hospital, surrounded by her family and friends. Throughout her cancer journey, she demonstrated the utmost grace, hope, and courage. Toni was born in Milwaukee, WI, to Edwin and Florence Robinson in January 1945, joining her elder sisters Kay and Gail. The family relocated to Arpin, WI. After graduating from John Edwards High School, Port Edwards, WI, she attended City College of Cosmetology in Milwaukee, WI, earning her cosmetology license. Toni married Roger Clark in May 1965, in Wisconsin Rapids, WI, parting ways in 1982. They had three children, Stacey Clark, Carissa Clark (husband John Evan), and Joshua Clark (wife Diana). While raising their family in Altoona, WI, Toni and Roger were active in their community and regularly volunteered their time as members of the congregation at Epiphany Lutheran Church. Toni's contagious enthusiasm, gift for gab, and flare for the dramatic led to a successful career in sales. She managed the Company Store in Eau Claire, WI, from 1983 to 1988, and eventually retired from AT&T, receiving many awards for her stellar performance as a Service Representative. During this time, Toni married Terry Foster, a welcome addition to the family. Together they enjoyed boating with the kids on Lake Wissota, weekends at their cottage, watching Green Bay Packers football, and spending time with family. Any time spent with Toni was an event. She loved entertaining friends and family with her animated stories and never wanted the good times to end, whether she was worshiping in church with her family, out on the town with friends, or at a family gathering, she was determined to get the most out of every minute. The daughter of a Golden Gloves boxer, she was an avid sports fan who loved hanging out with "the boys," and her ear for music made her a terrific addition at any sing-along. She was curious and particularly interested in people's stories. No matter the walk of life, she would engage in lengthy conversations and walk away having made a friend. Above all, Toni cherished her family, of whom she was incredibly proud. She could be a tough critic, but when it was your day, she could make you feel like a million bucks. It gave her great pleasure to dote on others. She adored her five granddaughters and relished in the time she spent with her many nieces, nephews, and their children. She considered herself blessed to welcome her two great grandchildren into the world and was thrilled that her family was continuing to grow. Her greatest peace was knowing her family was happy. Toni is survived by her children, Carissa and Joshua; sisters, Kay and Gail; granddaughters, Katie (husband Chase), Abbie (husband Evan), Mollie (wife Paula), Kaylie, and Mya; great grandchildren, Lillie and William; her nieces, nephews, and their spouses and children. She was preceded in death by her parents and her daughter, Stacey. Toni was a woman of indomitable spirit. She will be remembered for her strong will, quick wit, love of family, and gusto for life. Memorial Services will be held on Saturday, November 11, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. at Immanuel Lutheran Church with Reverend Timothy Ritter presiding. Inurnment will be at Town of Arpin Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. until the time of the services on Saturday at the church. Her children wish to thank the staff at Aspirus Cancer Center, Aspirus Riverview Hospital, and Herman-Taylor Funeral Home for treating Toni with compassion, dignity, and respect. Additionally, special thanks to Toni's many friends to include Sherry, Barb, Wendy, and Molly for their unfailing support, and finally to Toni's God daughter and niece, Paige, for once again answering the call. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to support Breast Cancer research, patient care, and support at an organization of your choosing.