Robert W Bonnema

Robert Warren Bonnema, beloved husband, father, and grandfather passed away peacefully on July 16 after a short battle with lung cancer and a long and remarkable life.



Born on January 13, 1937 to Agnes and Henry Bonnema, Rob contracted polio at 18 months old. Doctors told his mother he wouldn't live past the age of 12. Instead, he lived 88 full years shaped by resilience, curiosity, and a quiet kindness. Rob didn't let his physical challenges hold him back. He was always willing to try something new and find ways to adapt to his challenges.

Rob grew up in Denver, Colorado, attending Denver Christian, the Boettcher School, and Emily Griffith Technical College, where he honed the skills that would shape his professional life as a project development engineer. After many years in Denver, in 1974 he moved his family to Mound, Minnesota, to join Honeywell. His time there led to four patents and a career marked by innovation, trust, and respect.

In 1962, Rob was blessed to meet the love of his life, Janis Yelinek. They married and built a partnership that spanned more than 65 years. In 2015, Rob and Jan made a new home in Green Valley, Arizona, leaving Minnesota winters behind.

He lived by two simple beliefs: "It doesn't take much to be kind," and "Good friends are a gift from God." Rob treasured the people he met and the relationships he built throughout his life.

Rob is survived by his loving wife, Janis Bonnema; his children Brad Bonnema and Robin Bean, Corey and Susan Bonnema, and Amy and Troy Sinykin; his cherished grandchildren Max and Brooke Sinykin; and his brother Jim Bonnema.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Agnes and Henry Bonnema, and siblings Elaine, Martin, and Anne Gwen.

His fearless approach to life, fierce love for his family, and gentle heart leave a legacy that will stay with us forever.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are preferred to Courage Kenny Rehabilitation Institute and Desert Hills Lutheran Church Foundation. A celebration of life will be held later this year in Minnesota.