We have received word of the passing of Bonnie Mae Van Pay, also known affectionately as Bonita. She died on September 22, 2023, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, just one month shy of her 78th birthday. Born on October 26, 1945, in Green Bay, Wisconsin, Bonnie brought laughter to those around her throughout her life.
The daughter of Harvey and Agatha (Joski) Van Pay, Bonnie was raised in Green Bay and graduated from Preble High School in 1964. Following in her mother's footsteps, she pursued a career in cosmetology by attending beauty school in Milwaukee. Her passion for helping others feel their best led to a lifelong career as a beautician and hair stylist. She worked at various salons in Green Bay and across the Milwaukee area, where she built lasting relationships with clients.
Bonnie's dedication to service extended beyond the salon chair. She proudly served as a member of the Milwaukee Auxiliary Police, contributing to the safety and well-being of her community. In her later years, she became a home caregiver to an elderly couple (Henry and Myra), offering her devotion to comfort, companionship and care with grace and dignity.
A proud Wisconsinite through and through, Bonnie was an avid fan of the Green Bay Packers and the Milwaukee Brewers. Her love for sports was matched by her joy in bringing happiness to others—especially during her visits to nursing homes where she offered personal hair appointments to residents. These visits were more than just styling sessions; they were moments of connection that lifted spirits and brought smiles.
Bonnie had a wonderful sense of humor and delighted in telling jokes that brightened the days of those around her. Her laughter was infectious, and her presence brought memorable times wherever she went.
She is preceded in death by her parents Harvey and Agatha Van Pay; her sister Betty (Ray) Nooyen; and brothers William Van Pay and Robert Van Pay.
Bonnie is lovingly remembered by her nieces and nephews; Reyne (Bob) Vanden Heuvel, Michelle (George) Marsh, Greg (Lisa) Van Pay, Gary (Jodi) Van Pay, Gina Dagneau, Brian (Becky) Van Pay, Bruce (Sheila) Van Pay, Brenda (Bob) Mulvey, Susan (Gerald) Berndt, Bill Van Pay Jr., Sheila (Gary) Langkau, Bradley Van Pay, Kim (Craig) Bilderback, Shelley Carlson, and Scott (Kari) Van Pay. She is also survived by numerous cousins on the Joski side of the family, along with other relation and friends who will miss her dearly.
Bonnie's final resting place is at Good Hope Cemetery in Greenfield, Wisconsin.
May her memory bring comfort to all who knew her.
"Father, we entrust our sister to your mercy.
You loved her greatly in this life:
Now that she is freed from all its cares,
give her happiness and peace forever.
Welcome her into paradise
where there will be no more sorrow,
no more weeping or pain,
but only peace and joy with Jesus Your son and the Holy Spirit forever and ever."
The daughter of Harvey and Agatha (Joski) Van Pay, Bonnie was raised in Green Bay and graduated from Preble High School in 1964. Following in her mother's footsteps, she pursued a career in cosmetology by attending beauty school in Milwaukee. Her passion for helping others feel their best led to a lifelong career as a beautician and hair stylist. She worked at various salons in Green Bay and across the Milwaukee area, where she built lasting relationships with clients.
Bonnie's dedication to service extended beyond the salon chair. She proudly served as a member of the Milwaukee Auxiliary Police, contributing to the safety and well-being of her community. In her later years, she became a home caregiver to an elderly couple (Henry and Myra), offering her devotion to comfort, companionship and care with grace and dignity.
A proud Wisconsinite through and through, Bonnie was an avid fan of the Green Bay Packers and the Milwaukee Brewers. Her love for sports was matched by her joy in bringing happiness to others—especially during her visits to nursing homes where she offered personal hair appointments to residents. These visits were more than just styling sessions; they were moments of connection that lifted spirits and brought smiles.
Bonnie had a wonderful sense of humor and delighted in telling jokes that brightened the days of those around her. Her laughter was infectious, and her presence brought memorable times wherever she went.
She is preceded in death by her parents Harvey and Agatha Van Pay; her sister Betty (Ray) Nooyen; and brothers William Van Pay and Robert Van Pay.
Bonnie is lovingly remembered by her nieces and nephews; Reyne (Bob) Vanden Heuvel, Michelle (George) Marsh, Greg (Lisa) Van Pay, Gary (Jodi) Van Pay, Gina Dagneau, Brian (Becky) Van Pay, Bruce (Sheila) Van Pay, Brenda (Bob) Mulvey, Susan (Gerald) Berndt, Bill Van Pay Jr., Sheila (Gary) Langkau, Bradley Van Pay, Kim (Craig) Bilderback, Shelley Carlson, and Scott (Kari) Van Pay. She is also survived by numerous cousins on the Joski side of the family, along with other relation and friends who will miss her dearly.
Bonnie's final resting place is at Good Hope Cemetery in Greenfield, Wisconsin.
May her memory bring comfort to all who knew her.
"Father, we entrust our sister to your mercy.
You loved her greatly in this life:
Now that she is freed from all its cares,
give her happiness and peace forever.
Welcome her into paradise
where there will be no more sorrow,
no more weeping or pain,
but only peace and joy with Jesus Your son and the Holy Spirit forever and ever."
To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Bonnie (Bonita) Van Pay, please visit our flower store.
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