John Roy Bonne

John “Jack” R. Bonne, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully at the age of 82 on November 14, 2024. Born on November 8, 1942, in Rockford, Illinois, Jack was the proud son of a farming family that cultivated corn and soybeans and raised livestock. Growing up surrounded by the rhythmic hum of hard work on the farm, he learned invaluable lessons of tenacity, resilience, and endurance—qualities that would guide him throughout his life.

Jack’s love for learning and determination led him to pursue higher education with vigor. He earned his mathematics degree from Northern Illinois University and went on to achieve his MBA from the University of Chicago. These achievements propelled him into a successful career as a top executive for prominent companies such as Sara Lee, Xerox, Sharp, Microdata, and Sanyo Icon, Inc.

Jack was known for his challenging political emails, quick wit, and passion for embracing innovation and technology, always staying ahead of the curve in the fast-paced business world. Throughout his life, Jack cherished challenging and thought-provoking conversations with close friends and neighbors, and was known for his remarkable ability to strike up conversations with anyone, leaving a warm impression wherever he went. He had a deep love for politics and engaged with it passionately, bringing his sharp mind and unique perspectives to discussions that could last for hours. Many say he was the smartest man they knew.

Jack settled down in Southern California with his wife, Alice, where he finished out his career. They established many side businesses; BonneCo Consulting and Bonneville Breeding Kennels, where their champion Great Danes became frequent award-winners and a testament to his dedication and love for animals. He believed deeply in the power of persistence, tenacity and the importance of education, values he instilled in those around him. After retirement, he invented a patented “Fly through Bird feeder” which generated a self imposed nickname of “Birdman” and created an innovative planner called “Jack’s Notebooks”, an international online custom notebook business.

Jack is survived by his daughters Kim Bonne Dallas (Andrew) and Kari B. Bonne Miller; grandchildren, Lindsay Dallas Behl (Mark), Ian Dallas (Jen), Meagan Dallas Rollwitz (Ian), Alicia Miller Kohls (Ryan), and Ethan Miller (Rachel); and his great-grandchildren, Graysen Behl, Ophelia Miller, Avery Rollwitz, Cameron Behl, Callahan Miller, Levi Rollwitz, and Vivianna Kohls. He is also survived by his nephew Andrew Bonne, niece Katie Bonne Miller, and their families. Jack was preceded in death by his wife Alice Glasheen Bonne, his parents John M. and Winnifred L. Braddy Bonne, and his brother, Gregory Lee Bonne.

In accordance with his wishes, he will be laid to rest in Monroe Center, Illinois. Jack will be interred beside wife Alice, his parents, and brother.