Annette M. Wechner

Annette "Toni Wechner (née Thomas), age 87, passed away peacefully on August 12, 2025, in Chicago, Illinois. Born on July 4, 1938, in the same city she called home

throughout her life.

Annette dedicated over three decades of her professional life to Illinois Bell, where she

worked in the Accounting Department until her retirement. Her commitment and

diligence left a lasting impression on colleagues and friends alike.

In 1981, Toni met the love of her life, John Wechner. Their bond grew strong over the

years, and they were married in Las Vegas in September of 1988. This year would have

marked their 37th wedding anniversary-a testament to their enduring partnership and

love.

In her younger years, Toni loved going out and spending time with friends whether it

was bowling, darts or something else. That competitive spirit remained undiminished

with age as she liked playing games like Wordle, Rummikub, and Scrabble against

John, family or the computer.

She adored each of her parakeets and found delight in simple pleasures-changing her

nail color to match the holidays, painting by number with care and reading. In her 70s,

she embraced technology with enthusiasm by learning how to use first a laptop then an

iPad so she could stay connected with her nieces and nephews, play games, and

explore the internet.

She is survived by her beloved husband John Wechner; her parakeet Barney; eight

nieces and nephews; eighteen grand nieces and nephews; and a great grand niece and

nephew. She will also be remembered by those who knew her well.

Annette was preceded in death by her parents Mary Thomas (née Leszczynski) and

Paul Thomas; her younger siblings Paula Karnow (Ken), Patricia Gurley (John), and

Paul Thomas; and a close family friend Carole Hartge.

May Annette "Toni" Wechner's memory bring comfort to all who were fortunate enough to share in her life.

Visitation will be held on August 16, 2025, from 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

followed by a Funeral Service at 11:00 AM at Colonial-Wojciechowski Funeral Home 6250 N

Milwaukee Ave. Chicago. Interment will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery, River Grove.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Cancer Society, American

Heart Association, Anti-Cruelty Society of Chicago or Rainbow Hospice.