Helen E. Bonar

VERNON- Helen E. Bonar, age 93, passed away on Monday, February 26, 2024, surrounded by loved ones.

Born September 21, 1930, in Vernon, she was a daughter of the late Samuel and Evelyn (Draa) Barto. Helen was graduate of the former Gustavus High School. On July 6, 1949, she married her beloved husband, Garth A. Bonar, Sr and at the time of his passing in 2005, they had been married for 56 years. 

Helen’s generous spirit and never ending support made her the backbone of her family – a role she embraced with grace and unending love. Fondly referred to as "Oma" by her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren, she held a special place in their hearts as their "chief cheerleader." She attended their sporting events any chance she got. 

In addition to her dedication to family, Helen found joy in various hobbies and interests that enriched her life. She was a member of the Order of the Eastern Star and Mother Advisor of the Order of the Rainbow for Girls. Her competitive spirit shone through in her passion for bowling – a sport where she reached state champion at one point. Her love for nature led her to enjoy camping and traveling with her husband by her side. 

She leaves behind a family who will forever hold her close in their hearts.

Left to cherish her memory is her two daughters, Karen Cico and Kathy McKinley; three sons, Garth (Wendy) Bonar, Jr., Robert Bonar, and David (Susan) Bonar; nine grandchildren, Tammie (Roger) Weber, Christopher and Katrina Cico, Jodi (Jim) Murphy, Jason (Aimee) Bonar, Kristin (Tony) Steiner, Bill (Renee) McKinley, Samantha (David) Sufka and Sarah Bonar; 16 great grandchildren, Cory, Kayla, and Hannah Weber, Jacob and Zachary Cico, Curtis and Tanner Houser, Jorja, Grayson, and Gabriel Bonar, Anthony, Joseph and Matthew Steiner, Leah and Sophia McKinley, and McKenzie Sufka; five great-great grandchildren, Eric Weingart III and Maddie Weingart, Tillie Cico, Emmie Jaces, and Paislee Houser; two sisters, Marilyn Dilley, and Carol Arnio; two brothers, Raymond Barto and Samuel “Butch” Barto; brother-in-law, Ron Bonar. 

In addition to her parents, Helen is preceded in death by her husband Garth A. Bonar, Sr.; grandson, Benjamin Cico; sons-in-law, Dan Cico and Bill McKinley; sister, June Banning and numerous extended family members. 

Visitation will be held from 11:00AM to 12PM on Thursday, March 7, 2024, at the Living Water Methodist Church, 6262 Youngstown Kingsville Rd, Farmdale, OH 44417, immediately followed by the funeral service starting at 12NOON with Pastor Ronald McIlvaine officiating. Burial will follow in West View Cemetery, Vernon.