Mary Magdalene "Mimi" (Boardman) Toschi

A wonderful life was lived and lost when Mary Magdalene “Mimi” (Boardman) Toschi took her last breath on January 13, 2026. She died peacefully at home surrounded by her daughter and her cherished caregiver Janyl. Everyone who had the pleasure of meeting Mimi said she never spoke a harsh word and was the sweetest woman.

Mimi was born in LaPorte and spent sixty-eight years teaching the joy of music to children. She began her career at Boston Middle School as a music teacher and continued to teach children in Hollywood, New York City, and Spain. She gave her last music lesson when she was 83.

Besides music, Mimi loved adventures. When women weren’t traveling alone seventy years ago, Mimi pioneered throughout Europe, Egypt, and even spent Christmas Eve in Bethlehem by herself in 1959.

While music and adventure were her passions, her greatest love was her family and God.

Mimi is preceded in death by her husband Alessandro Umberto Toschi her parents, siblings, and nephews, Michael and Stephen Boardman and is survived by her children Alessandro (Debbie), daughter Mia and grandchildren Alexander (Melanie), Michael (Camille) and Gabriela and great-grandchildren Alexander, Mia and Ella. Mimi also had the joy of a large extended family in LaPorte which included nephews and nieces, great nephews and nieces and even numerous great-great nephews and nieces. She was graciously welcomed into many of their homes for Sunday family dinner which the family so appreciated.

Mimi and her husband Alessandro were married in St. Joseph Church in LaPorte, Indiana, but raised their children in New York City and New Jersey. They also had a home in Arizona, where they enjoyed spending time with their son’s family.

After her husband’s death, Mimi moved back to LaPorte. Her family owned a beloved cottage on Pine Lake and Mimi was remembered by many as a top water skier who even swam across Pine Lake in her earlier years.

One of her favorite songs was Frank Sinatra’s “I Did it My Way.” Mimi taught people to be kind and gracious and truly lived a selfless life.

The family will greet friends from 10 a.m. to 11 a..m prior to the Mass at St. Joseph Church. 

A Mass of Chrisrian Burial will be Celebrated at 11 a.m. Saturday, May 30, 2026 at Holy Family Parish, St. Joseph Church, 109 C. Street, La Porte, Indiana. Burial will follow at Pine Lake Cemetery.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Frank L. Keszei Funeral Home, Essling Chapel in La Porte.

To light a virtual candle, share a cherished memory, or leave a message of comfort for Mimi’s family, please visit esslingfuneralhome.com.

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