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Bonnie (Hodges) Fader passed away peacefully on Monday, December 10, 2024, with her loving husband Ed and her dearest Joevie, whom she loved as family, by her side. She is predeceased by her parents Eugene and Sharon Hodges. Bonnie was the eldest of 7 children. She had two sons, Gary (Becky) and Richard, two stepsons, Derek (Kirstie) and Ian (Ashley), 4 grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. Bonnie was known as “mommy” to many of her dearest friends, who became part of her chosen family.
As someone who lived by the words “it is better to give than to receive”, it seems fitting that Bonnie’s death will be associated with the Christmas season, a time of year she loved. Although they no longer had children living at home, she and Ed continued to put out Christmas decorations geared toward the young and young at heart. She did it to provide joy to others and was famous for saying, “it’s all about the kids.”
Bonnie worked hard all her life for everything she had and was happy to share it with others. Her family, whether biological or by choice, human or fur babies, meant everything to her.
Bonnie loved the heat of the sun and being outdoors in her yard, watching her flowers bloom and tending to her vegetable garden. She was an outstanding cook and baker and fed her family, neighbours and friends many delicious meals. She also shared from her garden, as well as the many preserves she prepared, including pickles, jams, salsa and tomato sauce to name only a few. It’s difficult to pinpoint what food she was most known for as each person she shared with had a different favourite.
Bonnie lived life on her terms and died in similar fashion. She was direct and known for her strong will and acted with passion and determination. Bonnie always told us “what you see is what you get.”
Bonnie died too soon, having been recently diagnosed with cancer at the age of 64. Those who loved her are deeply saddened by this tremendous loss but also grateful for the joy, passion, kindness and yes, even frustration, that Bonnie brought to our lives. Bonnie made an impact on everyone she met. She will be dearly missed by many and forgotten by no one. Although no longer walking with us, Bonnie will remain in our hearts wherever we go.
Cremation has taken place. A private event to celebrate Bonnie’s life will be arranged for a warmer time in recognition of Bonnie’s love for summer and the beach.
The family wishes to express sincere thanks to the VON for their compassionate care, kindness and support during Bonnie’s final days at home.
In lieu of flowers, sympathy may be expressed through donations to the VON (cheques only at the funeral home please). Arrangements entrusted to Smith Funeral Home, 1576 London Line, Sarnia.
