Daniel J. Bonifay

Daniel "Dan" Bonifay, age 36, of Elizabeth, Illinois, passed away on September 2, 2025. He was born on June 28, 1989, in St. Charles, Illinois, to Linda Emmons and Chris Schmidt.
On July 3, 2021, Dan married the love of his life, Selena Horn, at their home in Elizabeth, Illinois. Together, they built a beautiful life and raised their blended family.
Dan is survived by his wife, Selena, and his five children: Jesse Bonifay of Chatsworth Georgia, Trevor Bonifay, Parker Bonifay, Mikey Bonifay (all of Polo, IL), and Nathan Bonifay of Savanna, IL. He also leaves behind his two stepchildren, Bentley and Lexi Gaylord, of Elizabeth, IL. Dan is remembered by his mother, Linda Bonifay of Lena, IL, and his father, Chris (Tracy) Schmidt of Rockton, IL. He is also survived by his two sisters, Julianna (Scott Endsley) Bonifay of Freeport, IL, and Gwendolynn (Larry Pollock) Bonifay of Dubuque, IA.
Dan was especially close to his maternal grandparents, Wesley and Melissa Emmons, of Hillsboro, Alabama. He is also survived by his paternal grandmother, Kathleen Burk Royer of Hastings, Minnesota. He held a special bond with his favorite uncle, Rick Emmons, of Trinity Alabama. As well as his former partner, Jessica Kibodeaux, the mother of his children in Polo, IL. Along with many nieces and nephews.
Dan's love for the outdoors was evident from a young age. He was an avid fisherman, with a passion that started when he was just four years old, inspired by his grandfather, Wesley. Together, they spent countless hours outdoors, creating memories that Dan would carry with him throughout his life. Dan loved nothing more than sharing his outdoor adventures with his family, whether it was fishing, hunting, or teaching his children and stepchildren the joys of life outdoors.
His trips out west hunting with his dad and stepmom, Tracy, were some of his most cherished memories, and he took great pride in showing Selena and the kids his hunting haul. Dan's cooking skills were just as impressive as his outdoor prowess, with his antelope dishes grilled to perfection.
In the summer, you could often find Dan soaking up the sun at Apple Canyon Lake or the Mississippi River, his favorite places to spend time with loved ones. Whether he was tending to the family garden, repairing antique boat motors, or passing on his knowledge of fishing to his children and stepchildren, Dan's presence was one of love, laughter, and wisdom.
Dan's memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He leaves behind a legacy of love for nature, family, and the outdoors.
A celebration of Dan's life will be held on Friday, September 12, 2025, at the Apple Canyon Lake Clubhouse, 14A157 Canyon Club Drive, Apple River, IL 61001. Visitation with family present will be from 1:00 till 3:00PM. Memorial service at 3:00 PM. Refreshments to follow until 6:00PM.
A memorial has been established in his memory.
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