Charles Bona

Charles Bona obituary, Lake Geneva, WI

Charles Bona

Charles Bona Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Apr. 13, 2025.
Charles Conrad "Chuck" Bona (1935-2025)

Charles Conrad "Chuck" Bona, a resident of Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, and formerly of Gurnee and Hinsdale, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 27, 2025, at the age of 89. Born on November 27, 1935, in Chicago, Illinois, to Dr. Adolph Aloysius Bona, Sr. and Mae H. (Pieczynski) Bona, Chuck grew up on the southwest side of the city at 61st and Karlov. He was the youngest of four children, joining siblings Dr. Adolph A. Bona, Dr. Jerome R. Bona, and Katherine (Bona) Rybinski Prus.

Chuck came from a family deeply rooted in medicine. His father and brother Adolph were physicians, and Chuck, alongside his brother Jerome, followed a similar path, pursuing careers as dentists. A proud alumnus of the University of Notre Dame (Class of 1957) and Marquette Dental School (1961), Chuck went on to serve as a Captain in the Air Force before establishing his dental practice in 1964 at 6500 W. Archer Ave. in Chicago.

In June 1960, Chuck married the love of his life, Cele (Briick) Bona, beginning a remarkable partnership that spanned nearly 65 years. Together, they raised three children-Stephen (1963), Maria (1965), and Joseph (1970)-and built a family filled with love and laughter. Chuck's devotion extended to his grandchildren-Jessica Archer, Colin Archer, Shane Archer, Meaghan Archer, Mae Bona, and Charles Bona-many of whom spent cherished summers with him at the Lake Geneva Beach Association home his parents purchased in 1944.

A man of many talents, Chuck had a lifelong passion for live theater. In 1978, he joined The Theatre of Western Springs, where he remained active until 2020. He wore many hats-actor, director, playwright, and sound production specialist-while also serving as Chair of the Board of Directors on two occasions. His contributions to the theater were as boundless as his creativity. He was also a member of The Second City in Chicago.

Known for his gift of storytelling and tremendous sense of humor, Chuck brought joy to everyone around him. His wit and warmth left an indelible mark on his family, friends, and community.

Chuck was preceded in death by his parents, Dr. Adolph and Mae Bona; his siblings, Dr. Adolph, Dr. Jerome, and Katherine; his infant children, Tobias, Ann Marie and Rosemary, and also his son Stephen; and his granddaughter, Jessica Archer. He is survived by his beloved wife, Cele; his children, Maria Archer (John) and Joseph; and his grandchildren, Colin, Shane & Meaghan Archer and Mae and Charles Bona.

Chuck Bona's legacy is one of love, laughter, and service-a life well-lived that will be remembered fondly by all who knew him.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Sign Charles Bona's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

June 11, 2025

Jack Gibbs posted to the memorial.

April 7, 2025

Chris Henken posted to the memorial.

April 13, 2025

Legacy Remembers posted an obituary.

2 Entries

Jack Gibbs

June 11, 2025

My father John was best buds with Chuck and, we all became great friends over the years, going to ND football games, Lake Geneva and so on. I had the privilege of seeing him and Cele in Gurnee last year with Mom. His humor was as sharp as ever despite some physical challenges. Will always treasure his warmth and style. God bless ~ Vita Dulcedo Spes

Chris Henken

April 7, 2025

I work with Joey. My deepest condolences to the family. May you all find peace in the good memories.

Showing 1 - 2 of 2 results

Derrick Funeral Home and Cremation Services

800 Park Drive PO Box 730, Lake Geneva, WI 53147

Make a Donation
in Charles Bona's name

How to support Charles's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Charles Bona's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sign Charles Bona's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

June 11, 2025

Jack Gibbs posted to the memorial.

April 7, 2025

Chris Henken posted to the memorial.

April 13, 2025

Legacy Remembers posted an obituary.