Tonda Aleta Sigall-Drakulich

Tonda Aleta Sigall-Drakulich, 78, of Columbus, died July 25, 2026. Born at University Hospital in Columbus, she was the youngest of eleven Alexander children and was often raised alongside nieces and nephews who knew her by her family nickname “Boodle.” Tonda grew up Catholic in Shawnee Hills, across the river from the Columbus Zoo. As a child, her father would sometimes call to the elephants from his porch for her, and she would delight at hearing them answer back across the dark.

A woman of capability, tenacity, and conviction, Tonda was politically active and built a working life of service. She served in the safety department for the Columbus Division of Refuse and upon her retirement was the Director of Safety for the Columbus Recreation and Parks Department. Along the way she earned her Certified Safety Professional credential, teaching OSHA courses and building a consulting practice that carried her across the country. She was a gifted visual artist with a zest for life, equally at home betting at the thoroughbred track, prowling an auction, or in the middle of a home renovation.

She was preceded in death by her parents, George and Hazel (Halbert) Alexander; her siblings James, George, Carl, Barbara, Donald, Cleo, and Robert; and her nieces and nephews Greg, Michael, Diana, Myla, Robert, and Matthew. Tonda was, since 1987, the devoted wife of Michael Lee Drakulich, who survives her. She is also survived by her children, Michelle Elizabeth Drakulich and Benjamin Alexander Sigall; her grandchildren, Zoe and Ezra; her stepson, Terry; her siblings, Sandra, Charles, and Betty; and many nieces, nephews, and friends who loved her.

She was a beloved mother, loyal wife, dutiful daughter, caring sister, true friend to many, in tough times and in good, and will be missed.

Visitation will be held at Advantage Funeral & Cremation Services by Schoedinger, 5554 Karl Road, Columbus, OH 43229, US, on August 14, 2026, from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm, followed by a Memorial Service at the same location from 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm.

A Graveside service will take place at Green Lawn Cemetery, 1000 Greenlawn Ave, Columbus, OH 43223, US, on August 15, 2026, from 10:00 am to 10:30 am.