Joan Tool, of Surf City, NJ, passed away on September 5, 2025, from complications of Alzheimer’s disease. Remembered for her kindness and sense of humor, she will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and the community she touched throughout her life.
Joan was born on May 17, 1944, in Philadelphia to Elizabeth and William Cantono. She grew up in Mount Airy, PA, and spent summers in Harvey Cedars, NJ, before making Long Beach Island her home for most of her life, most recently in Surf City. She loved walking through her neighborhood, where she was known for stopping to chat and brighten the days of those she met.
In her final year, Joan resided at Arden Courts Memory Care in Palm Harbor, Florida. There she was known for her warmth, positivity, and active spirit, and she enjoyed the care and companionship of both staff and fellow residents.
A devoted entrepreneur, Joan owned the Tivoli gift shop in Bay Village before moving it to the ship at Schooner’s Wharf, where she was an owner-partner and manager of the shops that replaced the Lucy Evelyn. Before retiring, she was also an active member of the Long Beach Island community, volunteering for many activities and committees on LBI.
Above all, Joan loved her family and close friends, and cherished gatherings that brought everyone together. She is survived by her children, Michael Tool of Tampa, Florida, and Kristina (Nina) Tool of Champoluc, Italy, and her brother, Lawrence Cantono of North Wales, PA. She was preceded in death by her parents, her sister Claire Cantono, and her brother William Cantono, Jr.
A memorial service will be held on October 10 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Francis of Assisi Church in Brant Beach, followed by a luncheon. The family kindly requests donations in Joan’s memory to Cure Alzheimer’s Fund in lieu of flowers.