Bonnie Jean Shaw's Obituary
Remus -
Bonnie Jean Shaw, age 79, of Kalkaska, Michigan, passed away peacefully in Traverse City, Michigan, surrounded by her loving husband and children.
She was born on April 7, 1946, to William Hatton and Ethel Waite in Grand Rapids. On June 19, 1965, Bonnie married the love of her life, James Shaw. Together, they shared nearly 62 years of unwavering love, devotion, and partnership, building a life centered around family, faith, and service to others.
Bonnie dedicated 32 years of her life to education with Chippewa Hills Schools, where she made a lasting impact on countless students. She had a special way with children—each one drawn to her kindness, patience, and genuine care. After retiring in 2003, Bonnie and James continued their passion for helping others by starting the Mecosta Youth and Family Center, which offered guidance and support to those in need.
She had a love for travel, arts and crafts, sports and most of all, her family, especially her children and grandchildren. Bonnie’s life revolved around children, and she gave generously to anyone in need. She and James traveled extensively, visiting almost every state in the United States throughout their lives, creating cherished memories with their children and grandchildren along the way.
Bonnie was known for her joyful spirit, her generous heart, and her love of bringing people together. She especially enjoyed the holidays, where she hosted large family gatherings filled with laughter and tradition. She was a devote Christian of both the Remus Methodist Church and Chapel of the Lakes Church.
She is survived by her beloved husband, James Shaw; her son, James (Rhonda) Shaw; her daughter, Stacey (Doug) Knoertzer; her brother, David Hatton; her sisters, Linda (Sonny) Moore and Cindy (Kevin Doyle) Voss; her cherished grandchildren, Kci (Joe) Bourne, Kim (Jason) Lee, and Dakota Knoertzer; as well as several great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild.
Bonnie was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Roger Hatton; and her granddaughter, Nicole Young.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to the Life’s Work Clinic for counseling and addiction services of Michigan, in honor of Bonnie and her granddaughter, Nicole. Email: [email protected] to get further information on how to donate.
A funeral service will be held on Friday, March 20, at 11:00 AM at Chapel of the Lakes Church in Mecosta. The family will receive friends for visitation one hour prior to the service.
Bonnie’s legacy of love, compassion, and dedication to others will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.
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