ROBERT TONETTI

10/28/1936 - 01/08/2023

At 10:30 A.M. on January 8, 2023, Robert left us peacefully to be with the Lord. Robert (Ozzie) Hyde Tonetti was born on October28, 1937, to Joseph Lawrence Tonetti and Susan Hyde Tonetti, and he grew up with his three siblings, Mary, Joe Jr., and John. Robert graduated from the University of Texas, in Austin, with a Master of Civil Engineering degree and Bachelor of Arts degree in business. Melinda Smith Tonetti was the love of Robert’s life. Melinda met Robert in high school when he was dating her best friend. Fortunately, the girl’s mother did not approve of Robert and so their relationship ended. Robert went to her best friend Melinda for sympathy, and they fell madly in love and got married shortly after their sophomore year at U.T. Robert began his career in construction working for W.S. Bellows Construction Company in Houston. He later started R.H. Tonetti Construction Company, which he successfully operated in Houston for over thirty years.

Robert and Melinda lived in West University Place, and together created many beautiful and lasting memories while raising their three children Robert Jr., David, and Anne. They also have two wonderful grandchildren Max and Lauren. Robert’s main hobby was gourmet cooking. It was always a treat to visit the Tonetti’s home for a superb homecooked dinner. For the past forty years, Robert and Melinda have owned a ranch in Coryell County. Robert would say it was a delight to visit the ranch, measure the rain gauge, and watch the grass grow. Robert was an exceptional person who was loved by all, and we are grateful for the time we have had with him in our lives. A celebration of life and reception will be held at Earthman Funeral Home at 4525 Bissonnet Street, Bellaire, Texas, 77401, on January 21, 2023, at 2:00 P.M. In lieu of flowers, please donate to Tunnels to Towers, Channel 8 PBS, or M.D. Anderson Hospital.