Celebrating the Life of
Bonnie Lewis
August 19, 1953 — April 19, 2025
Obituary
Bonnie Laura Lewis, a fiercely intelligent, witty, and kind-hearted woman, passed away peacefully on April 19, 2025, surrounded by love. Born on August 19, 1953, Bonnie lived her life with boldness, humor, and compassion, never hesitating to speak her mind or extend a hand to those in need.
Bonnie is survived by her wife, Ronda; her daughter Erin and her husband Mike; her son Jacob and his wife Celina and her three cherished granddaughters, Ryan, Kaya, and Maylea. She is also remembered by countless friends who became like family over the years.
Bonnie dedicated many years of service to the IRS, where her sharp mind and integrity earned her the respect of her colleagues. After retiring, she embraced a spirit of adventure and exploration, traveling the world and making memories in places that inspired her. Among her favorites were the lush landscapes of Costa Rica and the breathtaking beauty of Africa.
Those who knew Bonnie will remember her for her quick wit, unwavering honesty, and the warmth she brought into every room. She believed in building strong connections, and her friendships were deep and lasting.
Bonnie's life was a rich tapestry of laughter, love, and meaningful experiences. She leaves behind a legacy of strength, generosity, and joy that will live on in the hearts of those who loved her.
*Please take a minute to share a fun memory or picture of Bonnie for us all to remember her by!*
Memories and Condolences
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As we left the birthday party , a passerby offered to take a group photo of us and made us stand by the letters that you see here. Bonnie absolutely begrudgingly posed with us for that! That is endearing 💙
Erin then texted me let me know that it was going to be Bonnie’s 70th birthday party and that Jake would be joining us, which was awesome because I had not seen him since 1991! Bonnie and I kept saying “I can’t believe you’re here,…” I got to see the family I love with Their loved ones. It was a true family filled with love ,and it’ was a wonderful time and I will forever treasure.
![A couple of years ago my singer and I (Salvo) were doing an acoustic tour Through California and the PNW.
I contacted Bonnie to let her know that we could stop through Fresno since we were playing San Francisco.
Bonnie replied, “Alas, my dear, I no longer live there, and I will be in Boise, Idaho during through [Saturday] anyway.”
My response: “ Bonnie, our tour ends Saturday in Boise” to which she exclaimed, “Shut up!“](https://cdn.bluebutterfly.com/users-uploads/image-7c360ed01f18.jpeg)
A couple of years ago my singer and I (Salvo) were doing an acoustic tour Through California and the PNW. I contacted Bonnie to let her know that we could stop through Fresno since we were playing San Francisco. Bonnie replied, “Alas, my dear, I no longer live there, and I will be in Boise, Idaho during through [Saturday] anyway.” My response: “ Bonnie, our tour ends Saturday in Boise” to which she exclaimed, “Shut up!“
Bonnie was the best. Her willingness to tackle the right things with courage and without fear inspired me. She and I were able to collaborate on many things that made a difference in a bureaucracy that had a distaste for things unconventional. I have a deep and abiding respect for Bonnie and will miss her.
One of several beautiful reunions - great memories!!
Bonnie, I will miss you terribly; your kindness and outlook on life was so inspirational. You were tough with this battle against cancer for so many years, so very tenacious. Life was better because you were in mine.
I will always remember Bonnie's laughter, friendship, and spirit of adventure. She was my friend and I miss her. -Jodi
Bonnie was a treasured friend and will forever remain in my heart. Charlotte
I met Bonnie in Costa Rica it seems like a lifetime ago but always fresh in my memory so many wonderful and cherish moments with her, with Ronda and close friends, and her family, and from that moment on she became one of my favorite human beings, and even though we didn’t see each other for many years, she always has and forever will be in my heart as one of the most special, kindest, lovely and smart woman I’ve ever met
It was such an honor to have drifted through this wonderful life you had. Caring, loving, cherishing and sharing. Our time together was shorter than some, but your grace and tolerance will forever be a part of me. You have lived a truly remarkable life that I can only hope to aspire to. I’ll live your life as long as mine continues.
I enjoyed working with Bonnie. She got me step out of my comfort zone and embark on a new adventure.
Bonnie was one of my closest, dearest friends. We truly were more family than friends. We talked about everything and anything, traveled together with our friends and family and she made the best fried chicken ever ! I will miss her something terrible but she will forever and always be in my heart. ❣️
Mom, I’ll miss you and love you every day. I think I’m doing OK until I want to call you and tell you the big stuff and the little stuff. From Kaya having lunch with the president of Fresno State to Pinky winning the championship game to me finally washing my car. I love you so much and will miss you forever ❤️
Our last family vacation in Mexico that I will cherish forever ❤️
Bonnie was a special friend who I could always depend on to be honest and helpful Our offices were close together and she was the “keeper” of my chocolate bars, safely kept in her desk drawer. I would have to ask permission to have one-not really she would just open the drawer and smile. Erin, Jacob and Rhonda our thoughts and prayers are with you and your families
I knew Bonnie from my many visits to Fresno for work. Such a sweet lady. I so enjoyed spending time with her. So very sorry to hear of her passing.
Our first meeting 2014 Miss you Bonnie
Since I can remember, Bonnie was considered a cousin to me (at least by choice). We eventually started calling her and Rhonda "the Bondies" because they were so close, and where one would be, the other would also. I always admired their strength and their bond, and that certainly has not faltered through recent events. I will never forget how welcoming she was, how much she loved those around her, and how much she cared and loved her beloved dog-children. She was always telling me about them when I would see her for family events because she knew I was a good sounding-board, and that I can relate and understand. I will miss seeing her at these family events and hearing about her "dog psychic" stories and stories of her sweet rescue dogs. Bonnie, I hope you are no longer in pain, but are at peace now. Don't worry, I will make sure the dogs are doing okay now.
When we moved to Fresno from Chicago it was a culture shock to say the least. Having the Lewis family down the street made it so much easier. Growing up with Jacob and Erin was amazing, and being able to get to know Bonnie as a kid was really special. Now as an adult I look back on so many fond memories and am very thankful to still have Jacob and Erin in my life as friends to carry on her memory.
April 2013 Cayucos Garden Club Meeting
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