Robert W. Bonnette's Obituary
Robert Winfield Bonnette, age 76, passed away peacefully Sunday evening, May 8, 2016 at the Brookhaven Medical Care Facility with his wife, Sena, by his side. “Bob”, as he was known to family friends, endured a long battle against Alzheimer’s disease but was still able to show his spirit throughout this journey and enjoyed keeping his caregivers on their toes. He was born on October 14, 1939 to Glen and Jane (Boon) Bonnette of Holland, MI. On August 10, 1962 Bob married Sena H. Havinga and spent the next 53 years together. Bob and Sena have three children, Robert Glen (Gina) Bonnette, Timothy W. (Dona) Bonnette and Nicole Schuett. Bob enjoyed spending time with his children and especially his grandchildren, Sam, Katie, Adeline, and Cameron. Bob enjoyed a full, active life both professionally as an educator with the Reeths-Puffer School District for 33 years, football coach, high school referee and driver’s education instructor/owner of “Mr. B’s Drivers Ed”. Though Bob enjoyed his work, he enjoyed the fruits of his labor even more. Bob was an adventurer to say the least showing this early on as an Eagle Scout recipient. He loved bird hunting out west, family trips to Colorado and the “Dude” ranch, time up north and relaxing in Florida with Sena. Bob loved playing guitar, listening to music, horses, cars, motorcycles, and taking photos of family and friends. In addition to his wife, children and grandchildren, Bob will be missed by his sister, Sara Jane (Jim) Van Putten of Holland; brother-in-law, Nick Havinga of Los Angeles, CA; sister-in-law, Marilyn Padgett of Jenison; as well as his nieces, nephews and friends. A CELEBRATION OF BOB’S LIFE will be held 11:00 AM Friday, May 13, 2016 at The Lee Chapel, 6291 S. Harvey St., (231) 798-1100. VISITATION with the family will be from 5-8 PM Thursday, May 12, 2016 and one hour prior to the service. Burial will take place in Laketon Twp. Cemetery. MEMORIALS to the Alzheimer’s Association or Hospice of Michigan will be appreciated. Share memories with the family at their On-line Guest Book at www.sytsemafh.com
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