Fred M. Bonar, age 88, of Baytown, Tx, passed away on October 12, 2023. He was born in Wheeling, West Virginia on September 20, 1935. He was raised by his mother, Sophie Bonar Zastudil and stepfather Karl Zastudil. In 1959, Fred graduated from the University of Steubenville in Ohio, majoring in Chemistry with a minor in Math. He was hired after graduation by Covestro (formerly Bayer) in New Martinsville, WV. He was transferred to help open a new plant in Baytown, TX in 1971. He continued to work for Covestro until his retirement after 36 years. During his life he also worked as an instructor for the Dale Carnegie Institute for 25 years. Fred was also involved with the Baytown Chamber of Commerce, helping to plan their yearly Business Expo and organizing the Chamber golf tournaments for several years.
Fred met his future wife, Carole Schellenberg, while they were both still in high school. They were married on August 31, 1957, and celebrated 66 years of marriage this past August. They raised 2 daughters, Christine and Sheila.
Fred enjoyed a lifelong love of woodworking which he continued after his move to Baytown, and his new Texas friends introduced him to fishing, hunting and golf. But, what made Fred the most happy was spending time with his family. He especially enjoyed his grandchildren and great-grandchildren who loved him very much.
He was preceded in death by his sister Anna Lee Sedor and brother Michael Zastudil.
He is survived by his wife, Carole Bonar, and daughters, Christine Miller of Baytown, TX and Sheila Byrne of Garland, TX. Grandchildren include Lauren Sneed (John) of Conroe, TX, Jacob Miller of Houston, TX, Zachary Byrne (Brooke) of Broken Arrow, OK, Riley Byrne of Norman, OK, Casey Byrne (Morgan) of Austin, TX and Jenna Byrne of Denton, TX. Great-Grandchildren include Isabelle, Madison and Mason Sneed and Griffin and Clark Byrne.
Visitation will be held from 10-11 am, Monday, October 16, 2023, at Navarre Funeral Home, 2444 Rollingbrook Dr., Baytown, Texas 77521, with the memorial service to follow and begin at 11 am.
In lieu of flowers, feel free to make a donation in Fred’s memory to the charity of your choice.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.navarrefuneralhome.com for the Bonar family.
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