I met RJ when I was 19. He was always making me laugh and was so fun to be around. It was always so fun watching him sing and do little dances to his favorite songs.
I didn't see him again until years later. He was still as funny as I remembered. If there was a way to make me laugh he found it. Though he could also make me very angry at times but that went both ways as many know. Even during a fight he could make me break character and laugh or at least smile. It was so annoying. I miss that... He knew me better than I did. He wasn't just a boyfriend, he was my best friend but he deserved better than who I was back then... 
I still think about him every day and look at our pictures, the writings on my wall, and the things he made for me... I'll miss the long talks, bike rides, and coloring in his tattoo. The world really did lose an amazing guy. 
He will forever be the Bandicoot to my Crash 💙

Thinking of you on this day. 
Dennis and Darlene

Christin & Megan,

I have enjoyed reading so much of the kind thoughts for RJ.  Megan was more where we crossed paths as Hanna & Megan were at Miss B’s.  I only got to know RJ a little in those younger years.  No life deserves to end that way.  May God give you comfort and peace in your memories.  Deb Mansfield 

RJ,  Family an friends
I just heard, 😐 No words can express.  .....
May God bless you RJ,  your Home,   may peace come over your family and friends in this time of sorrow and struggles.
I pray for the open eye  an mind to find blessings in/ from tragedy.  
All my love brotha.
Peace
Slocum 

Christin I can imagine no greater pain and loss.  From one mom to another , you have my sympathies and  heartfelt hug.  So sorry for your loss.  

I worked with him great guy still can't believe he's gone i have to tell self that's it's real so sorry for his family 

My heart is aching for the loving family of dear RJ. I knew RJ during his middle school years where I served as his principal. I had many talks with RJ trying to quiet his anger and to convince him that we were there for him and believed in him as a student and as an Individual. He could always make me smile because he had that impish gleam in his eye that let you know he believed you cared, and wanted to make things better.  My prayers are being lifted up to bring God’s comfort and everlasting peace to all who loved him.

I watched you grow from a cute seven year old full of lots of energy and so many questions into a young adult still full of energy, more questions and strong opinions. May all your questions now be answered and may you Rest In Peace. 

I've been fortunate in my life to work with many young people, some from their 1st day of kindergarten to the day the graduate. They each become a part of my heart and I'm humbled by the lessons I've learned from each of them!  Sometimes there comes along that one student who makes you throw out the 'teacher handbook' and figure it out as you go! The student who questions EVERYTHING you say, ARGUES just because they can, is SMART beyond their years and makes you take NOTHING for granted.  RJ Bontrager, your twinkling eyes gave me gray hair, your determined conviction for whatever you were passionate about gave me sleepless nights, and above all your ability to keep me on my toes made me so much better at my job! I'm so grateful for the lessons you taught me and the touch you have had on my life. Forever in my heart, REST IN PEACE! ♡♡

I met you only a couple of times R.J but your sweet nature was obvious.  I am so very sorry for your family as they have to remain to bear the pain of your home going. May you be at peace and surrounded by love in your new home.

When you were born I didn't know my heart could love that big.  You looked into my eyes and you were mine forever.  Now you are taken from me, I didn't know I could feel so much sadness and pain.  My love for you remains.

I was saddened  to hear this.  I got to know RJ at Mid-Prairie.  He was intelligent, full of spunk and caring.  I always enjoyed our talks.  My heart aches for his family.  I am so sorry.

A brother, a cousin, a friend., a daddy... You will be remembered. I will forever cherish our memories. Rest your soul. 
Until we meet again 
-Red 

Christin,
I am so sorry for this heart break. I remember going to nursing school with you and meeting little RJ and getting to know your family well. Gosh, feels so long ago but I guess it was!
I will pray for peace to find your heart my friend. 
💙

I taught RJ in 4th Grade at Wellman Elementary.  I remember him being a bright boy with a big heart and sweet smile.  He was always willing to help his friends in need.  I am so saddened to hear of his passing.  My heart goes out to his family and friends.  I'm sorry for your loss.

I am so sorry to hear this! I have fond memories of R.J. from my 5th grade classroom at Wellman Elementary. He was always full of spunk, and was very smart. He will be missed! 

I worked with Rj  at farmers creamery for two maybe three years. I remember Rj as our going, full of good energy and he always had my back. 

My brother and I went to mid prairie with RJ all through elementary, middle and high school. I would like to say Rest In Peace Rj, and when I die I’ll be up in heaven with you buddy.

Chase Stockstell.

RJ you were one of my closest friends growing up, honestly you were my first friend when I moved to Kalona, thank you for that I miss you so much, I’m sorry that I didn’t keep in contact more, but life is crazy....it never changed the way I felt about you. I miss you and love you I promise I’ll watch out for Megan here on earth while you watch her from heaven.

OBITUARY

Rollin J. Bontrager

March 30, 1993 – July 22, 2020

Ankeny Funeral Home & Crematory

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