Edward A. Tonti was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. A graduate of Aquinas High School, he attended the University of Michigan and graduated in 1938, with a degree in Forestry. A longtime resident of the westside of Columbus, he became a prominent builder and developer in the area. He was a veteran of World War II (Lt. Col. US Army QM), a member of the Knights of Columbus Council #2898, the American Legion Post #532, and Moose Lodge #11. Always the avid golfer, he was principally involved in the building of four area golf courses; Wee Bonnie Golf Course, Oakhurst Country Club, New Golden Wedge Golf Course, and self-designed National Road Golf Course. Oakhurst Country Club was founded in 1959 from his vision. In collaboration with renowned golf course architect, Jack Kidwell, Oakhurst Country Club was destined to become the premiere private country club in the southwest Columbus/Grove City areas.