Nora “Bonnie” (Donnelly) Wagner, 86, passed away peacefully on July 26, 2018 surrounded by family and friends in the home of her daughter where she had resided the past two years. Her celebration of life memorial service will be held at 10 am, Saturday, September 15,2018 at the Ottawa funeral home. The Reverend Kathy Rolenc will officiate. Visitation will be on Friday September 14, 2018 from 4-7 at the Ottawa Funeral Home. The Women of the Moose will conduct a short ceremony honoring a departed member at 6pm during the visitation. Interment will be in Oakwood Memorial Park.
Bonnie was born on August 25, 1931 in Ottawa to Carl and Rosella (Sibert) Donnelly.
She is survived by 2 children: Mary Jo Parker Donnelly and Barbara (Joe) Sptizer both of Chillicothe, Illinois. 3 Grandsons: Mathias, Donovan and Gavin Spitzer. Also surviving are 5 brothers: Carl and Gary (Diane) Donnelly of Ottawa, Gerald (Joyce) Donnelly of Ohio, Kenneth Donnelly of LaSalle and Raymond Donnelly of Springfield. She was preceded in death by her parents, one sister Helen Howell and one brother Donald (Marge) Donnelly.
Bonnie was the City of Ottawa’s first mini-bus driver and remained in that position until her retirement (1974-1996). She was an avid bowler for many years often earning high series. She was inducted into the Women’s Bowling Association Hall of Fame in 1994. She was a lifelong member of the Women of the Moose rising to the level of Academy and received special recognition for over 50 years of service. She was also a member of the VFW where she served in leadership as the Sergeant of Arms. She was a member of the First United Methodist Church.
Bonnie had a deep faith and loved spending time with family and friends. Her grandchildren were the joy of her life. She loved to travel and took several trips to Vegas and Branson with groups from Ottawa. She had a special passion for the quarter slots. She considered a trip to Ireland with family as one of her lifelong dreams. She was an avid Cub fan never losing faith they would win the World Series in her lifetime and enjoyed the celebration accompanying their 2016 win. She leaves those who loved her with memories of her kindness and compassion for others, warm smile, good stories and laughter. She will remain always in our hearts.
Memorials may be directed to Mooseheart, Moosehaven or the family.
Bonnie has been laid to rest in the Garden of Inspiration.