It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Antonio (Toni) Claudio Grande, beloved husband, father, son, brother, uncle, and friend on June 27, 2023 in Ottawa, Ontario.
Toni was born on December 29, 1960 in Montreal, Quebec to Guiseppe and Rita Pivetta Grande. He was predeceased by his father, Guiseppe Grande.
Toni was a proud member of the Royal Canadian Armed Forces serving in the Royal Canadian Regiment and Air Force from 1981-1994. Upon retirement from the military, Toni studied at the Hotel Culinaire de Strasbourg to become a well known chef in Ottawa for the past 30 years. He was a member of the Culinary Federation of Canada and Vice Argentier with the Chaine des Rotisseurs.
Toni is survived by his loving wife of 23 years, Yolande Jones-Grande, his mother-in-law Glenda Duncan, his son Tyrone Grande and his wife Amalia Grande and their daughter Azélea, his daughter Tiea Rudyk and her husband Zachary Joseph Rudyk and their son Joseph Houser Rudyk, his sisters Rosanna Grande and her sons Matthew and David Gordon and Sabrina Grande and her daughter Alessia Ferraresi.
Toni was a generous soul who was always willing to lend a helping hand. He was a passionate chef who was always eager to share his love of food with others.Toni will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Ottawa Heart Institute Foundation in Toni’s memory. The family would like to thank the Pacemaker Clinic and Dr. Chih for their care and compassion.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
Digital Guestbook
Robert Madill and Suzanne McKellips
Jean-François Bilodeau
My sincere condolences.
Sam Donkoh
My heart is wounded at the passing of Antonio, my "Fratello." The maestro who exposed me to many cooking secrets and delighted me with your magic in the kitchen. My other half in the duo that cheered for Ghana and Italy in World Cup football tournaments. I did not get to tell you, but you made me feel proud with your constant stream of questions about Ghana. With your exit, my generous fountain of old movies has dried up. You have earned your rest, my patient Italian language teacher. Addio "Fratello."
Lori Millar
My deepest condolences to my dear friend Yolande and your families. May your fond memories of Toni sustain you through this difficult time.
Karoline Massé
Dear Toni, you were like family the minute we meet ! You will be deeply missed by so many! Thank you for all the laughters, the meals and the encouragements! You are as rare as they get! Thank you for always checking up on me and the fam, I know you will be doing so up there in the sky, cooking up a storm as always! May your soul rest in peace! Xx
Tracey & Dino Payer
Dear Yolande & family please accept our heartfelt condolences. May Toni rest in eternal peace and the memories ease your grief . Sending prayers and love, Tracey & Dino
Matz
Toni was one of the first people I met in the culinary industry, along with his wonderful wife, Yolande. He had a huge heart and was always very warm and inviting. He was always willing to help, guide or teach, and that impressed me, as he never lost his cool under pressure. The culinary world has lost a marvellous man. Sending love and light to all those he left behind.
Jean Sarrouf
Dearest Tony , you will be missed.
Russell weir
Our thoughts and prayers are with your family. RiP chef
Claude Leblond
Chef Toni was always there to lend a hand when needed, he will be missed , rest in peace my friend ❤️
So sorry to hear this. Toni made us feel incredibly welcome at the Chaine events here in Ottawa. Our thoughts are with his wife and family.