Toni Rae Szanto

Toni Rae (Bast) Szanto, 78, of Green, OH, walked into the open arms of her Lord on Thursday, November 16th, 2023, at Rose Lane Nursing and Rehabilitation in Massillon, OH. 

Affectionally known as “Gigi” by her grandchildren, she was born on August 24th, 1945, in Akron, OH, and was the daughter of the late Edward and Kathyrn (Rogers) Bast.  She grew up in Canton, OH, with her loving family and spent many of her summers making cherished memories at Willowdale Lake. She was a graduate of Canton Central Catholic High School and shortly thereafter married and raised her three young children along with her husband in Akron, OH. Upon the kids entering school age, Toni embarked on a 15+ year career with Mary Kay Cosmetics.  Her ability to garner trust and inspire other women to take charge of their own destinies led her to a senior sales director role within the company along with a long line of award-winning pink Cadillacs. Throughout her career in Mary Kay, she met and befriended many women who not only went on to be successful as well but also became lifelong friends. Once retired from Mary Kay, she volunteered for many faith- based organizations and gave of her time willingly until chronic health issues became her life. Faith and Family were at the core of her foundation.    

Toni is survived by her loving husband of nearly 59 years, Robert Szanto of Green, OH; a son, Keith E. (Hilliary) of Chicago, IL; daughters, Kimberly A. (Tom Labut) of Canal Fulton, OH, and Stephanie D. (Austin) Petit of Norton, OH; six grandchildren; Dante Donatelli, Noah (Hannah) Donatelli, Michael Petit, Lauren Petit, Sadie Szanto and Zoe Szanto.  She also leaves behind many cousins, nieces and nephews and her special cousin, Holly Maust. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her siblings; Jacqueline Meyer, Cynthia Gelesky, and Edward Bast.  

A memorial mass will be held on Wednesday, November 22, 2023, at Queen of Heaven Catholic Church, Green, OH, at 10:30 a.m. with Reverend David Durkee officiating. The family will receive friends one hour before the mass beginning at 9:30 a.m. A private interment will be held for the family later. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you start each day by telling someone that you love them.  As well, if inclined, please consider donating to One of A Kind Pet Rescue in Akron, OH, or Queen of Heaven Catholic Church, Green, OH.   Condolences and special memories of Toni can be shared with her family online at www.heritagecremationsociety.com