Ramona Gail Tonkinson

MADISON/VERONA - Ramona Gail (nee. Beecher, Tallman, Goodwin) Tonkinson, age 78, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, August 9, 2021, at UW Hospital and Clinics. She was one of 16 children, born on September 25, 1942, in Ohio, the daughter of Carlyle and Carolyn Beecher. Ramona was a talented artist using her artistic flair to paint stills and watercolors and crochet lace using the finer threads and more decorative styles of stitching. As a long-term resident at Badger Prairie Health Care Center, her art was always on display. She was fondly known as “Monique,” a fashionista. She enjoyed hosting parties, and staff enjoyed doting on her. Ramona lived her life on her own terms. It was ALWAYS an adventure, whether cross country to California in a 1968 VW Bug with six kids and a friend or on a Greyhound bus. She was always planning the next move. She loved music, dancing, bingo and playing cards. Ramona is survived by two daughters, Julia Wolff Morter and Janice Ray; son, David (Sandy) Tallman; eight grandchildren, Shauntal (Brian) Winslett, Angelica (Logan) Witzig, Brandon (Lindsay) Walker, Raymond Ray, Allen Ray, Tammy Morter, Jaymes Treu, and Stephanie (Josh) Thalacker; six great grandchildren; and several siblings. Forever young at heart, she couldn’t wait to see her grandkids and great grandkids-and they couldn’t wait to see Grandma Mona. She was preceded in death by her parents, infant son, and several siblings. The staff at Badger Prairie was just like family and they, like us, will miss her deeply. We will think of her on our next adventure, but it won’t be same without her. A celebration honoring Ramona’s life will be held September 25, 2021 at GRUNDAHL PARK, 600 S. Blue Mounds St., Mt. Horeb, from 1 pm to 4 pm. Food and refreshments will be provided at the enclosed shelter that is wheel chair accessible. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com. Gunderson Lodi Funeral & Cremation Care 157 South Main Street (608) 592-3201