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Mary Ann Bonnes, beloved wife, mother, and friend, passed away peacefully at the age of 87 on November 7, 2026, at the Deerfield Arbor in New Richmond, WI.
Mary was born on February 11, 1939, in Baldwin, WI where she spent her childhood on a farm with 11 siblings. She graduated from Baldwin High School, and just 1 month later married the love of her life, Gene. They began their life together in Eau Claire, WI, living on the river. That was the beginning of their love for being on the water.
Their daughter, Tammy was born in less than a year, and they waited 9 ½ years before their son, Greg was born. Mary always said they “forgot the recipe”.
Mary and Gene moved to New Richmond in 1961, when Gene started his career at Doboy Packaging. Mary also worked there as a traffic secretary for 7 years. Her next career began 5 years later as a library aide at West Elementary where she enjoyed 26 plus years until her retirement.
Mary and Gene always had a place on the lake to enjoy with family and friends. Every weekend was filled with wonderful memories with their children and grandchildren pontooning and soaking up the sun together.
They also enjoyed 19 winters in Arizona where they made lasting friendships and memories. Mary and Gene were always on the go, whether it was riding their motorcycle, dancing, or traveling all over the world.
With all of this, their priority was to be there for every activity and life event of their children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. They loved every minute of time with family.
Mary had the gift and love of music. She played the organ and piano (all by ear) at many events, including the Deerfield where they lived for the last three years.
Her faith was strong and First Lutheran Church was their home for over 65 years. She also enjoyed playing cards and was part of many bridge groups and loved a good game of Euchre or 500 and she needed to win no matter what.
She touched so many with her sweet, loving personality, and always had such kind words for everyone.
Mary is survived by her daughter, Tammy (Daren) Powers; son, Greg (Trish) Bonnes; grandchildren, Melissa (Matt) Severson, Brady (Lauren) Powers, Jackson (Claire) Bonnes, Tyra (Jesse) Rickard, and Ava (Tyler) Larson; great-grandchildren, Makara Severson, Nora Powers, Henry and Arthur Rickard, Noah and Elina Bonnes, and Lainey Larson; as well as her sister, Shirley (Ron) Stone.
She is preceded in death by husband, Gene Bonnes; parents, Joe and Mabel Van Someren; siblings, Leslie Van Someren, Ruth TeGrotenhus, Lyle Van Someren, Kenneth Van Someren, Pauline Holle, Nancy Roach, Lloyd Van Someren, Joseph Van Someren, Jr., Robert Van Someren, Ronald Van Someren.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, November 14, 2026 at 12:00 noon at First Lutheran Church (218 County Road K) in New Richmond. Visitation will also be Saturday from 10:00 am- 12:00 noon at the church. A celebration of Mary’s life will follow the service at the 4Six Social Barn (1905 WI-46) from 2:00-6:00 pm with Live Music from 4-6 pm. In honor of Mary’s personality, requested attire is animal print. Private interment will be in the First Lutheran Church Columbarium. Memorials may be directed to First Lutheran Church in New Richmond. Arrangements are with Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services.
Click here to watch Mary’s memorial service live at 12 noon on Saturday, November 14, 2026
11 Comments
Tammy, Darin and Families,
I am so very sorry to hear the passing of your mom! May she be dancing with your dad in Heaven now. Sending sincere condolences. Praying for peace and comfort. 🙏 Hugs to you!
So sorry to hear about Mary. Prayers for your families. Yes, she should be dancing in heaven now. She will be missed. Take care.
Greg, Tammy and families. No words can ease your grief. Just know so many of us care and share in your loss. My deepest sympathy. Sandy
Such a nice lady to know.
Oh how we loved that beautiful, spunky lady! We will miss her and rest in knowing its a beautiful day with her and Gene together again.
We have so many fond memories of Mary, always with Gene at her side. So many fun Gold Wing daily rides and stops for lunch and great conversation. Always the most gracious hostess with snacks for all. She will be missed by so many but we know Gene is happy to have his dance partner back again. W & L
Hugs and Prayers to the whole family remember she is at peace now no more worries
She was such a wonderful person. She always had treats for our dog. Loved watching here dance with Gene. Condolences to her family.
So sorry for your loss. She was one heck of a lady! I will forever remember how she would make me giggle. Hugs to you all.
Not only are Mary and Gene dancing but I can see her playing the organ and a round of bridge. What a gracious lady! It was a pleasure working with Mary at West Elementary School. My deepest condolences to Tammy, Greg, and their families.
I remember both her and Gene well, they were one. Both were committed servants to First Lutheran Church. I will always remember Mary’s soft-spoken voice. She lived an honorable life as a dedicated wife, mother and grandmother.
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