Bonnie Jean Ritchhart

Bonnie Jean Ritchhart, a woman of love and creativity, passed away peacefully on November 11, 2024, at the age of 91 in Lakeland, Florida. Born on November 30, 1932, in Oskaloosa, Iowa, Bonnie's life was a tapestry of devotion, artistry, and melody that touched the hearts of all who knew her.

Bonnie's journey began as the cherished daughter, and only child, of Forrest and Mary Whitlatch. Her early life was surrounded by animals in her rural home in Oskaloosa where she began to discover her many talents. In 1954, she married the love of her life, Darrell Ritchhart; a farmer, pilot, and deputy. Together they built a family foundation strong enough to withstand the test of time. Although Darrell preceded her in death, their love story of 52 years remains an inspiring chapter in the Ritchhart family legacy.

A mother above all, Bonnie was the heart of our home and family. Her dedication to her children, Mark Ritchhart and the late Debbie Schuerer, was unwavering. Her role as a mother and housewife was one she embraced with every fiber of her being, nurturing her family with the same hands that created wonders through her crocheting, knitting, and sewing. Her ingenious art designs adorned not only the attire of those she loved but her innovative artwork graced various events and establishments, leaving a trail of beauty and awards wherever she went.

Bonnie's only grandchildren, Leah Lynn Ritchhart and Lyssa Danae Ritchhart, received the benefit of a generous gift giving grandma. The girls were the recipients of her boundless love and the beautiful creations of her skilled hands. Thanks to FaceTime, Bonnie got to see Leah's new born great-grandchild, Zayne Brit Ritchhart. They will all carry forward the warmth and care that she so generously bestowed upon them.

Her voice, as beautiful and clear as a bell, often filled the halls of churches much of her life. Bonnie's singing was not merely a display of her musical gift but an expression of her faith and the joy of using God's gift.

Bonnie was honored to call her main occupation for a number of years as a housewife. As her children grew she was being sought after in utilizing her creative work in the town of Oskaloosa where she began employment with the school system in the audio visual department. After a few years she went into business herself with a needlepoint shop, followed by using her graphic art and silkscreen designs at Marv Smith Signs later becoming the large company of Musco Sports Lighting where she retired from in 1999.

Those who knew Bonnie would describe her as loving, intelligent, and selfless. Her ability to give so freely of herself, to put others before her own needs, was a testament to her character. Her intelligence shone as the Valedictorian of Oskaloosa Senior High, carrying on through her studies of Art Design at Iowa State University. She was a problem-solver in daily life with her intricate patterns of her handiwork showing love in her sacrifice.

Bonnie was known by her friends in her hometown of Osky as Bonzi and she was known by her family as a mother that never missed even one of her children's sporting or music events The recent joy before her passing was hearing her recite from memory Psalms 23, John 3:16 and singing happy birthday to herself.

As we bid farewell to Bonnie Jean Ritchhart, we celebrate a life that was truly well-lived. Her legacy of love, creativity, and selflessness will continue to inspire and guide us. Bonnie's memory will be cherished and kept alive in the stories we share, the crafts we treasure, and the songs we sing. Her spirit, as enduring as the stitches in her crochet, will forever be woven into the fabric of our lives.

"Those we love don't go away, they walk beside us every day. Unseen, unheard, but always near. Still loved, still missed, and forever dear." Alex MacLean

The end of all things is near. Therefore be alert and of sober mind so that you may pray. Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God's grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.
1 Peter 4:7-11

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.