Vincent W. Fonti

Vincent W. Fonti, of Plover, passed away at Marshfield Medical Center in Weston on April 10, 2025, at the age of 88.

Vincent was born July 23, 1936, in Pittsburgh, Pa.; son of the late Joseph and Catherine (Aiello) Fonti. He grew up in the area where he attended local schools and played football. He also started working as a caddie at a local golf course where he learned to relate to a variety of people; one of many lifelong skills he learned while working there. In 1954, he graduated from Turtle Creek High School in Turtle Creek, Pa.

Following high school, Vincent bravely enlisted in the U.S. Air Force and served his country for four years. While in the military, he received training as an appliance repair technician. While stationed at Truax Field in Madison, he met Mary Emmerich. The two fell in love and were united in marriage in 1959. Vincent and Mary were blessed with nearly 60 years of marriage until Mary’s passing in 2018. In that time, they welcomed five beautiful children and worked hard to instill a strong Catholic faith within them. Vincent and Mary made sure their children knew the importance of attending church and being grateful for each blessing from God. To support his family, Vincent worked as an appliance technician at American TV. While there, he told the owner that he could sell items and quickly became a sales professional. In 1969, Vincent opened up Appliancemart, in Madison, with his partner, Pete Gambino. Using what he learned in his career, combined with a great work ethic, compassion for people, and sheer determination, the business grew. Vincent would often say that his business was built by taking care of one customer at a time. In 1984, Vincent decided to take yet another risk and moved to Stevens Point where he opened the Furniture and Appliance Mart with his son, Bill. He expanded the business yet again in 1989, with the help of his three sons, Bill, Vinnie, and Joe. In 2002, Vincent retired and transitioned leadership to his three sons. Vincent had created a strong foundation for the growth of the business and created a legacy based on his core principles. The company has grown to 16 stores throughout Wisconsin. Vincent is also proud of having his daughter and grandchildren, who all worked in and supported the family business. Vincent enjoyed the golden years with his family and friends after his retirement.

Vincent was a great leader, both in his career and with his family. He was both fair and firm, and had a way of making others feel special with his outgoing personality. While he enjoyed many things while here, he mostly treasured the time spent with Mary, his children, and his grandchildren. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather; a true family man. Vincent’s final days were spent with his family by his side and filled with everyone sharing stories about the difference he had made in their lives. As a lifelong Catholic with a strong faith, Vincent died peacefully and likely heard his Savior, Jesus, utter the words, “Well done good and faithful servant.”

Vincent is lovingly survived by his children, Joe (Karen) Fonti, Bill (Natthita) Fonti, Laurie (Steve) Snyder, and Vincent (Kay) Fonti Jr.; his grandchildren, Chelsea (Peter) Kubica, Natalie Snyder, Tony Snyder, Katie (Alex Coyne) Fonti, Kristine (Joey) Kurth, Nick Fonti, Vincent Fonti III, Kyleigh Fonti, Ben Fonti, Rose Fonti, and PC Fonti; and 6 great-grandchildren. He is further survived by his sister, Dorlena Tomei.

Vincent was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Catherine; his beloved wife, Mary; and a precious daughter, Theresa Fonti.

The family would like to extend a special Thank You to Annie Landrath, who has been Vincent’s partner for the last 5 years. She provided him with love and support while simultaneously adding years to his life by providing companionship and love. They would also like to thank Vincent’s daughter, Laurie, for always being there for Dad and providing tremendous love and support.

For those wishing to express their sympathies, the family kindly suggests in lieu of flowers, donations be made in Vincent’s honor to the Portage County Boys and Girls Club (www.bgclubpc.org).

A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Thursday, April 17, at Mt. Olive Lutheran Church - 6205 Alderson Street in Weston. Friends and family are invited to gather and share memories on Wednesday, April 16, 2025, from 3 to 8 p.m. at Shuda Funeral Chapel (3200 Stanley Street, Stevens Point) and again on Thursday at the church from 10 a.m. until the time of service. Burial will follow at Guardian Angel Cemetery in Stevens Point.

Shuda Funeral Chapel is honored to be assisting the family.