Bonita Kay Buitendorp

Bonita “Bonnie” Buitendorp, age 78, went home to be with the Lord on September 28, 2026.

Bonnie was born in Coopersville, Michigan, to Benjamin and Kate Bennink. One of nine children, she grew up surrounded by a large family and carried the importance of family, togetherness, and tradition throughout her life.

In 1969, Bonnie married Jerry Buitendorp and moved to Fremont, Michigan, where they built their life together. For 57 years, Bonnie and Jerry shared a marriage filled with love, devotion, family, and countless memories.

Bonnie earned her Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) license and worked as a nurse for more than 17 years. Her profession reflected so much of who she was. Caring for others came naturally to Bonnie, and she brought compassion, patience, and kindness to those around her.

Above all, Bonnie dedicated herself to her family. She was caring, nurturing, generous, and selfless, always giving freely of herself without expecting anything in return. She lived with grace and showed unconditional and unwavering love to her family and those fortunate enough to know her.

In 2008, Bonnie and Jerry moved to Arizona to enjoy their retirement together. Bonnie loved experiencing life and making memories with those she loved. She enjoyed traveling and exploring new places, sewing, cooking and baking, reading, word searches, playing cards and board games, and simply spending time with friends and family. She especially treasured family traditions and took great care in passing them down to the generations who followed her.

Bonnie is survived by her beloved husband of 57 years, Jerry Buitendorp; her son, Jason Buitendorp (Nicole); her two granddaughters, Journey and Jenevieve; and her siblings, Maurice, Ruth, and Irma. She also leaves behind extended family and friends whose lives were made richer by her kindness, generosity, and love.

Bonnie will be remembered for the way she made people feel cared for and loved. Her grace, selflessness, nurturing spirit, and devotion to family defined her life. The traditions she preserved, memories she created, and unconditional love she gave so freely will continue through her family for generations. She will be missed every minute of every day.

The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to the employees and caregivers of Sandridge Post Acute and Compassus Hospice in Mesa, Arizona, for the kindness, dignity, compassion, and dedicated care they provided Bonnie.