Dec.
30, 1944 - Aug. 6, 2010MISHAWAKA - Gary Lee Bonnell was born December 30th, 1944 and from that day on he never met a stranger. Gary was a loving family man, a caring friend and an avid Notre Dame Football fan. But before he supported the blue and gold, he sported the black and gold as a Penn Kingsman, Class of 1962 - the very first four year graduating class of Penn High School. After graduation Gary served his country in the United States Navy from 1962 to 1966. After returning home from duty Gary married Emily Dotson of Mishawaka and they have spent the past 43 years happily in love. Gary was a Iron worker. He owned Teebb & Associates Machinery and Rigging in Rockford, Illinois, was a member of Iron Workers Local 292 & Club 15 and a member of Masonic Lodge # 45. But Gary's proudest accomplishment by far was fathering two wonderful sons: Kenneth and Jeffery. In 1999 came the pride and joy of Gary's life: his grandson Bransen Riley Bonnell. Gary never missed a practice or athletic event of his grandson's. Gary's life truly was centered around his family. Gary was preceded in death by his mother, Elsie Alice Hamilton, and his father, Kenneth William Bonnell, both of Pulaski County, IN. Also preceding him in death were his sisters Barbara Sipe and Virginia Wise. Surviving Gary are his wife Emily; his sons, Kenneth and Jeffery; his grandson, Bransen Rylee Bonnell (all of St. Joseph County); his brother, Larry (Judy) of St. Charles, Illinois; and his sister Shirley Robertson of Tullahoma, Tennessee. Gary Lee Bonnell genuinely radiated joy and love. He touched many lives and will be greatly missed by those who loved and knew him. Visitation will be on Sunday, August 8 from 12 to 6 p.m. in Hahn Funeral Home, 505 W. 8th Street, Mishawaka. Funeral services will be on Monday, August 9 at 2:00 p.m. in the funeral home with Rev. Bud Walterhouse officiating. Burial will follow in Fairview Cemetery, Mishawaka. Memorial contributions can be made to the Charity of the Donor's choice. To leave the family an online condolence or to share memories with the family, please visit our website at www.hahnfuneralhomes.com.