Bonita Rose Golder

Bonita Rose Golder died Dec. 25 after spending a joyous Christmas Day with her family. She was 90. Bonnie was born Oct. 11, 1927 in Nazareth, Texas, the daughter of Edward Kern and Rose (Wilhelm) Kern. She earned a bachelor's degree from Mount St. Scholastica College and a master's degree from Saint Louis University. Bonnie spent her life as a teacher at the grade school, high school and college levels. The bulk of her teaching career was as an adjunct faculty member at Ferris State University. Bonnie was a champion for social justice, an avid reader and lover of literature, a consummate hostess, a skilled quilter and an expansive and compassionate soul. In her later years, she was a trusted advisor and guide to her seven grandchildren. Bonnie was predeceased by her beloved husband of 54 years, Gordon A. Golder and by four brothers. She is survived by her dear sister, Delores Warren Geisler (Tony); her children, George Anthony Golder (Jill); Michael Edward Golder (Lisa); and Elizabeth Rose Stefanowski (Rob). She is also survived by seven grandchildren: Erin Elizabeth Golder; Zachariah James Golder; Benjamin Daniel Golder; Keegan Edward Golder; Madeline Rose Stefanowski; Paige Elizabeth Stefanowski; and Delaney Diana Stefanowski; and many nieces and nephews. A visitation will be held from 4 PM to 8 PM Friday at the Reyers North Valley Chapel, 2815 Fuller Ave., NE, Grand Rapids, MI. A rosary will be prayed during the viewing at 7:30. Additional visitation is scheduled for 10 a.m. Saturday at Saint Jude Parish, 1120 4 Mile Road NE, Grand Rapids, MI. A Mass of Christian burial will follow at 11:00 AM at Saint Jude Parish. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider making a donation in Bonnie's name to God's Kitchen, 303 S. Division Ave. Grand Rapids, MI 49503.