Shade Gap, Pennsylvania – Joan A. Bonnema, a longtime resident of Shade Gap, PA, passed away peacefully at her home on Monday, September 23, 2024, at the age of 90. Born on August 3, 1934, in Philadelphia, PA, she was the daughter of the late William H. and Clarissa (Osborn) Kettle.
Joan was married to Edward G. Bonnema, Sr., on April 27, 1951. He preceded her in death on February 20, 1989. She is survived by her three children: Jeffrey Bonnema of Shade Gap; Kathryn Covert and her husband Kevin, also of Shade Gap; and Kimberly Starliper of Mt. Union, PA. Joan was a loving grandmother to Eddie Haigh and his wife Liz, Jenny Blizzard and her husband Andrew, Kristyn Covert and her fiancé Michael Grove, and Kelsey Covert and her companion Luke Bittner. She was also a proud great-grandmother to Jackson Haigh.
She was preceded in death by her son, Edward Bonnema, Jr.; her brother, William Kettle, Jr.; and her sisters, Margaret Kettle and Florence Thomas. Joan was known for her dedication as a homemaker and her work at the Fulton County Courthouse and the former Little K Country Store in Shade Gap.
The funeral service will be held on Thursday, September 26, 2024, at 2:00 PM at the Martin R. Brown Funeral Home in Orbisonia, PA. Interment will follow at Pleasant Hill Cemetery in Shade Gap, PA. Friends and family are invited to pay their respects an hour prior to the service at the funeral home.
The community has shared their heartfelt condolences on social media. Jenny Blizzard expressed, “I know how hard it must’ve been to leave us behind & how badly you wanted to stay, but I hope you are happy & not suffering anymore.” Samantha Leidig shared, “Thinking of you always! She was always such a sweet lady. Love you!”
Others, like Raylee Gibbons, offered prayers and support, saying, “Praying for you and Andrew that God will bring you both comfort during this very difficult time.” Elaine Bartlett added, “So sorry for your loss Jenny. Sending love and hugs to you, Andrew, and the family.”
Joan Bonnema’s life and legacy will be cherished by her family and the Shade Gap community she called home for so many years.