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Mary Bonk Obituary
Mary Bonk, 88, of Columbus, NE, passed away peacefully on August 16, 2025, surrounded by her family's love. Born in Columbus, NE, Mary lived a rich and beautiful life filled with sports, dancing, hard work and devotion to her family.
Mary was employed at Becton-Dickinson for 35 years; she worked at the Ag Park and Columbus Public Schools. Sports were always at the center of Mary's world. From an early age, she was an enthusiastic fan, and that passion never faded. She loved the excitement of the game, the energy of competition and the camaraderie that sports created.
When the music played, Mary's other joy came alive; dancing. She never needed a reason to dance; it was simply part of who she was.
She also had a deep love for being outside and found peace in her garden, where she tended her flowers with the same care and patience she gave to the people around her.
Her favorite phrase, *"I'm okay,"* was more than just words; it was her way of reassuring her family with her strength and resilience.
She is survived by daughters, Joyce (Dana) Hellbusch of Edmond, OK, Diane (Greg) Becher of Maitland, FL, Sandy Growden of Andover, MN; sons, Randy Bonk of Omaha, Robert (Jan) Bonk of Elkorn, NE, Rodney Bonk of Columbus, NE; and daughter, Lisa (Kevin) Polcovich of Edmond, OK. She is survived by 11 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph and Pauline (Mostek) Zywiec; Husband Richard L. Bonk, and Leonard Dufek. Son, Richard L Bonk Jr. Grandchildren, Jacob and Joshua Collins, and Cody Hellbusch. Brothers, Frank, John, Dick, Louie, and Leo Zywiec. Sisters, Dorthy Fendrick, Stella Kowalski, Cecilia Szelag, Francis Beck, and Theresa Henry.
Mass of Christian Burial is 10 a.m. Saturday, August 30, at St. Anthony Catholic Church in Columbus. Visitation is on Friday, August 29th, from 5 to 7 p.m. at McKown Funeral Home with a 7 p.m. Vigil service to follow. Interment is in St. Bonaventure Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Anthony's Church and Youth For Christ nonprofit organization in Columbus.
McKown Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. www.mckownfuneralhome.com
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