Madeleine BONTA

Madeleine passed away on December 15, 2013, in the loving presence of her family after a two year battle with melanoma. She was 19 years old. A graduate from Montgomery High School in 2012, Madeleine was a member of the varsity swim team all four years. She was selected to deliver the commencement address at graduation, and the poise she demonstrated in delivering her speech was truly inspirational. Madeleine loved being active, whether it be hiking, horseback riding, swimming, going to the gym or taking her dog Nelson for a run. She had a zest for life. She enjoyed the challenge of working with small children, and taught swim lessons, helped in her mother's kindergarten class and assisted in teaching Sunday School classes. Madeleine had a special connection with animals, and dearly loved her cat Eddie. Madeleine greatly enjoyed family trips to Mt. Lassen, Disneyland, San Diego and Hawaii. She and her family were fortunate enough to go to Hawaii one last time in March, 2013 through Make A Wish Foundation. Madeleine was a beautiful young woman, whose beauty only grew despite the physical effects of her cancer. Throughout her fight against melanoma, she demonstrated determination, resilience and the ability to keep smiling and stay positive. Her family was blessed to have Madeleine for 19 years. Although she was unable to fulfill the plans she had envisioned for her life, she is now in a better place where those dreams can be achieved. The family wishes to thank the many people who were touched by Madeleine's spirit. It was a true blessing to see so many open their hearts unconditionally. Madeleine was preceded in death by her grandmothers Patricia Bean and Maureen Bonta. She is survived by her parents David and Deanne Bonta, brother Max, grandfathers Donald Bean and Ernest Bonta, and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins in Santa Rosa and Minnesota. The family has established a scholarship fund in Madeleine's name for the Montgomery High School swim team. Contributions may be made at the Redwood Credit Union, account #431887. Contributions may also be made to the Make A Wish Foundation. A memorial service will be held to celebrate her life on Saturday, December 28, 2013, at 2 p.m. at Santa Rosa Bible Church, 4575 Badger Rd. in Santa Rosa. DANIELS CHAPEL OF THE ROSES FUNERAL AND CREMATION SERVICE (707) 525-3730