In Loving Memory of Antoinette "Toni" Aleman

On July 12, 2026, our hearts were forever changed when Antoinette "Toni" Aleman passed away after a courageous battle with cancer. While we grieve the loss of her physical presence, we celebrate a life that was filled with music, laughter, compassion, and an extraordinary ability to make every person she met feel valued and loved.

To know Toni was to know kindness. She had a remarkable gift for making people feel truly seen and heard. Whether you had known her for years or had just met her, she had a way of listening with her whole heart and making you feel like you mattered. She was a connector of people, building friendships, bringing loved ones together, and creating community wherever she went.

Music was the soundtrack of Toni's life. She was known for her beautiful singing voice, a voice that could comfort, inspire, and bring joy to those around her. She also delighted in making up silly songs about everyday moments, turning the ordinary into something unforgettable. Even during her final days, she continued to sing, offering laughter and light to those who loved her most. That was Toni—always finding a way to brighten someone else's day, no matter what she was facing.

She had a special place in her heart for old dogs, believing they deserved every bit of love and comfort they could receive. Her compassion extended to everyone and everything around her, and she lived each day with a generous spirit that made the world a gentler place.

One of the greatest joys of Toni's life was marrying her beloved husband, Bob Zinkel, in October 2024. Their time together, though far too brief, was filled with love, companionship, and countless treasured memories. She cherished every moment they shared.

Toni is lovingly remembered by her devoted husband, Bob Zinkel; her sister, Christina Salm and her husband, Allen; her nephews, Gabriel and his wife, Mikayla, Dakota and his wife, Sara, and Elijah and his wife, Olivia; along with many dear friends who became family through the love and friendship she so freely gave.

Toni leaves behind a legacy that cannot be measured by years but by lives touched. She reminded us to sing often, laugh freely, care deeply, and never miss an opportunity to let someone know they are loved. Her light, her music, and her boundless compassion will continue to live on in all of us.

Though we will miss hearing her voice, we know her song continues in every act of kindness, every shared laugh, and every connection made in her honor.

A Celebration of Toni's Life will be held on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. at Olin Park Pavilion, Madison, Wisconsin. Family and friends are invited to gather to share stories, laughter, music, and memories as we celebrate the beautiful life of a woman who gave so much love to so many.

In honor of Toni, those who attend are encouraged to come ready to share a favorite memory, sing along if the moment calls for it, and remember the joy she found in life's simple moments. If you wish to honor her memory, consider showing kindness to someone who needs it or opening your heart to an old dog in need of love—a tribute Toni would have cherished.

Forever loved. Forever remembered. Forever singing in our hearts.

Please share your memories below in the online guestbook.

Cress Funeral & Cremation Service

3610 Speedway Road Madison

(608) 238-3434