Bonnie Marie McElmurry

Bonnie Marie McElmurry passed away peacefully on June 16, 2024, in Anchorage, Alaska, surrounded by her loving family. Born on May 12, 1951, in Medford, Oregon, to Earl Bliss and Martha McDonald, Bonnie spent her early years in the rural community of Prospect, OR. In 1984, she moved her family to Alaska, where she continued to build a life filled with love and adventure.
Bonnie graduated from Prospect High School in 1969 and pursued college courses in finance and business. Her greatest joy was her family, and she dedicated herself wholeheartedly to her children and grandchildren. Bonnie created a home brimming with laughter and adventure, often taking her family on camping and fishing trips. Her passion for fishing led her to the rivers on the Kenai peninsula and oceans of Southeast Alaska, where she shared countless memorable moments with her children.
Bonnie enjoyed a distinguished 30-plus-year career with the US Forest Service. She began by planting trees in Prospect, Oregon, and eventually transitioned to office work. After moving to Anchorage, she continued her career with the Forest Service, ultimately working at the Regional Office in Juneau, Alaska, where she was honored as Federal Employee of the Year. Her career also took her to Albuquerque, NM, where she remained until her retirement.
Known for her quick wit and playful spirit, Bonnie often delighted friends and family with her practical jokes. Her infectious laughter and sparkling smile were a testament to her loving, warm, and independent nature.
Bonnie is survived by her daughters, Michell Ralph of Independence, MO, LaQuita Chmielowski of Anchorage, AK, and Vince McElmurry (Anna Latham) of Juneau, AK. She also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren: Selwyn, Autumn, Piper, Jayden, Jedrek, Guthrie, Abby, John, and Isla; her siblings: Cheryl. Marie, Linda, Sam, Susan, and Debra; and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Earl Bliss and Martha McDonald; her siblings, Larry Bliss and Bud Hatfield; and her son, Earl McElmurry.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Asante Hospice and Providence Hospice for their compassionate care during Bonnie's final days. They also thank the doctors at OSHU for their exceptional care, which provided Bonnie with more precious time with her family. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to OSHU Cancer Foundation.