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August 28, 1960 – February 8, 2025
It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Anthony (Tony) Bennett Grandi. Also known to many as “T-bone,” passed away unexpectedly on February 8, 2025, at the age of 64. Tony was a loving father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend who will be missed dearly.
Tony was born on August 28, 1960, in Duluth, Minnesota, to Dante and Marion (Rendal) Grandi. He attended Denfeld High School and was a proud graduate of the class of 1978. During his time there he met many lifelong friends that he would keep in close contact with through the years.
Tony worked various jobs throughout his life, including at Mr. Franks Pizza East and as a laborer for the Local 1091 Union. In the late ‘80s, he decided to venture out west, living in New Port Beach, California, and later Reno and Las Vegas, Nevada, before returning to Duluth permanently in the early 90s. Tony was formerly married to Tracy Oland, the mother of his daughter Alexandra.
In 1993, Tony and Tracy, purchased Shannon’s bar which was the beginning of T-Bonz Bar and Grill. T-Bonz officially opened on October 31, 1993 and has grown into the well-known establishment it is today. T-Bonz has been a well-loved local meeting place for many. It has been the location for numerous celebrations and gatherings. Whether it was stopping after work for a burger and beer, or meeting up before a hockey game or concert, T-Bonz was always a place where people felt welcome. Over the past 31 years of operating, Tony has met countless people and made several meaningful friendships that we know he cherished.
In earlier years, Tony played softball which is where he got the nickname T-bone. Tony enjoyed playing golf, cards and shooting pool. He also enjoyed sipping on an ice-cold bottle of Bud Light. To Tony this was referred to as the “Nectar of the Gods”. Tony was a huge sports fan and followed all sports teams. Whether it was pros, college or local high school level, he would be watching and cheering on the home team. His all-time favorite sport was baseball. He was an avid concert goer and listened to music of all genres but there was no one who compared to The Boss. Over his lifetime, Tony attended numerous Bruce Springsteen concerts with the number being likely in the 70s. Tony enjoyed fishing and had a very special place in his heart for the state of Montana. Being in the mountains, around the breathtaking view and wildlife is where he felt most at peace and connected to God.
Despite the many challenges he had faced in recent years with his health, he continued strong with optimism and determination. His sense of humor and personality was like no other. He was a very generous man and always willing to help in any way he could. Tony found great joy in spending time with his family and friends. He was most proud of being a father and grandpa Tony. The love he had for his family was strong and he made that well known every day.
He was preceded in death by his parents, and his beloved brothers, Mike and Jr (Jackie).
Tony is survived by his daughter, Alex (Tim) Juten, and his adored grandchildren, Levi and Ila; his nephew Dante “Moose” (Mandi) Grandi and their children, Leo and Milo; his sister, Marilyn, and brother, Pat (Jaylynn); his friend and former spouse, Tracy, and stepson Sean (Anna) Oland; nephews Scott (Belle) and Ryan, along with other nieces, nephews, cousins and many dear friends.
A celebration of Tony’s life will be held on Saturday, March 22, 2025, at the First Memorial Funeral Chapel, 4100 Grand Ave, Duluth, MN, with a visitation at 2 p.m and service at 3 p.m. Following the service, we will gather at T-Bonz Bar and Grill to honor and celebrate the incredible man Tony was. The family invites you to wear your T-Bonz apparel that you have acquired over the years as a tribute to our beloved T-bone. We know that he would like to thank the community for all the love and support they have shown to him and the business over the past three decades.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations to be made to any local youth/high school sports program in memory of Tony. Although he is no longer with us, his legacy will live on through stories and memories shared by family and friends. Tony will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
