Gates, Bonnie 1936-2024 Stanberry, Mo.

By NewsPress Now

STANBERRY, Mo. – Bonnie Gates, 88, Stanberry, Missouri, passed away Tuesday, Nov. 19, 2024. She was born Jan. 13, 1936, in Springfield, Illinois, to Clarence and Nell (Clemens) Manis. Bonnie grew up in Athens, Illinois, where she graduated from Athens High School in 1954.

Bonnie lived most of her adult life in Springfield, Illinois, where she worked in administrative support at GMAC for 30 years until retirement. She then embarked on a second career at Farmers Insurance in Springfield, where she worked for 20 years.

Bonnie married David Gates on May 25, 2002. The couple loved traveling together, having visited all 50 states and Europe. They enjoyed 18 years of marriage before he preceded her in death on Oct. 20, 2020.

She was a lifetime member of Athens Christian Church. Bonnie was a devoted wife and enjoyed spending time with friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband, David; and her parents.

Survivors include her daughter, Brenda Lynch (Randall); stepchildren, Linda Craig (Jim) and Jim Gates (Susan); seven grandchildren; and several great-grandchildren.

Services 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 30, at the Union Star United Methodist Church. The family suggests memorial contributions to AseraCare Hospice or Athens Christian Church, Athens, Illinois. Natural Farewell under the direction of Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory.

Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com. As published in the St. Joseph News-Press.