Catherine "Cathy" Bonk

Catherine "Cathy" Bonk, a lifelong devoted Catholic, beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away on Saturday, October 4, 2025 surrounded by her loving family. Known for her bright spirit and boundless energy, Cathy brought laughter, love, and warmth wherever she went.

A native of Brooklyn, New York, she was the loving wife of the late Walter Michael Bonk and the daughter of Michael Bulger and Catherine Foley Bulger, both deceased.

She worked at Hickory Farms and TS Designs in Quality Control for many years.

Cathy devoted much of her time to helping others through her volunteer work at ARMC, where she proudly served as a Patient Escort for more than 12 years, dedicating over 3,649 hours of service. She was known for her kindness, compassion, and creative touch - always ready with a warm smile and helping hand. Cathy loved bringing fresh flowers to brighten the hospital and took great pride in decorating the visitors' station for each holiday, spreading cheer and smiles throughout the halls. True to her festive spirit, she dressed for every holiday - right down to her socks - making everyone around her feel the joy of each season.

To her family, she was affectionately known as "MeMe" - a title she wore with pride and love. Her grandchildren were the light of her life, and she cherished every moment spent with them. Whether she was cheering them on, sharing laughter, or simply being together, Cathy's love for her family was unwavering.

Cathy had a zest for life that was contagious. She loved to dance and was always the life of the party, bringing joy and laughter wherever she went. She also loved to go out gallivanting and shopping - especially at Hobby Lobby, Big Lots, Ollie's, and Whole Foods - always finding little treasures, good deals, and inspiration for her next project or holiday decoration.

A true lover of beauty, Cathy found peace in her garden, especially among her lilies, which she tended with care and delight. She also enjoyed relaxing with a good newspaper, never missing a chance to catch up on the latest news and community happenings.

Cathy's kindness, humor, and generous spirit will be forever remembered. Her legacy of love, laughter, and joy will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to Happier Days Private Duty Services and Gentiva Hospice for their compassionate care, support, and kindness during Cathy's final days.

She is survived by her three children, Michelle Catherine Murrell and husband Glenn of Apex, Charlotte Bonk Johnson and husband Dwayne of Burlington, Walter Carl Bonk and wife Kim of Burlington; four grandchildren, David Murrell and wife Jenna, Andrew Murrell, Lauren Staley, Viviana Bonk; and one great grandson, Miles Murrell.

She was preceded in death by her twin brother, Michael Bulger, and her sister, Liz Quigley.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, October 10, 2025 at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church at 11:30 am with the family receiving friends from 10:00 am to 11:30 am prior to the service. The Mass of Christian Burial will follow at Alamance Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to ARMC Auxiliary, PO Box 309, Alamance, NC 27201 in memory of Cathy Bonk. These funds are used to support the hospital, cancer patients, and give scholarships.