Bonnie Jeanne Critz

Born May 16, 1938, to Calla & Allan Leake, Bonnie grew up in Des Moines’ cherished Waterbury neighborhood, a place she loved throughout her life. She attended Roosevelt High School, studied retail and fashion at Des Moines Technical High School, and later attended Bemidji State College. While in high school, Bonnie worked in the dress department at The New Utica downtown, beginning a lifelong love of all things creative.

Bonnie met her husband, Gerald “Jerry” Critz, through mutual friends, and they married in August 1959, celebrating 65 years of marriage together. They lived in Cedar Rapids, Dubuque, and eventually Des Moines, where Bonnie happily settled just a block from the home where she grew up. They welcomed their only daughter, Susan, in March 1969.

Bonnie loved being a homemaker and had a gift for making life beautiful. She was an excellent cook and baker who loved gardening, especially flowers, drawing, interior design, and creating her own seasonal décor. Holidays at Bonnie’s home were made special with beautiful tablescapes, warm hospitality, and plenty of laughter.

Known for her happy-go-lucky spirit and quick wit, Bonnie could always surprise you with the perfect one-liner. She made everyone feel welcome and always put others before herself. Bonnie loved animals, especially dogs, including her beloved English Cocker Spaniel, Pepper and her granddogs, Holly, Silvia, and Nellie. She and Jerry also enjoyed weekly dinners with friends, sipping iced tea on the screened-in porch in the summertime, and boating at Red Rock and Saylorville Lake.

Bonnie was preceded in death by her mother, Calla Leake; sister, Celeste Leake; and husband, Jerry Critz. She is survived by her daughter, Susan Critz; brother, Charles Leake; and many dear friends and extended family.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the nurses and staff at Wesley on Grand for their compassionate care.

The family will be holding a private service to celebrate Bonnie’s life.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Animal Rescue League of Iowa in honor of Bonnie’s love for dogs in need.