Merwyn Bonnett
Merwyn Bonnett
Merwyn M. Bonnett, 91, of Oskaloosa, died Sunday, November 6, 2011, at his home in Oskaloosa. He was born June 29, 1920, at Jefferson County, Iowa, the son of J. Edgar and Effie Mae Turnbull Bonnett. He graduated from the Richland High School. Following high school Merwyn and his brother had a partnership and ran the family farm until he left for college. He attended Chicago Evangelistic Institute in University Park. On August 12, 1954, he was united in marriage to L. Marjorie Ridpath; she died December 10, 1985. He worked at Ideal Manufacturing from 1954 until 1973 and later at Rolscreen in Pella until his retirement in 1981. He maintained his love for the farm and farming throughout his life. He enjoyed collecting barometers, thermometers, canes and shopping for antiques. He attended the Nazarene church when he was able.
He is survived by his daughter Elaine Marie Bonnett of Newton and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his wife; his parents; two brothers: Lester and Wilbur Bonnett and two sisters: Marjorie McCracken and Lurena Reed.
Graveside services will be held Thursday, November 10, 2011, at 1:30 p.m. at University Park Cemetery in University Park with Reverend Ralph Sprunk officiating. A procession will form at the Bates Funeral Chapel at 1:15 p.m. for those wishing to go to the cemetery. Burial will follow the graveside service in University Park Cemetery. Bates Funeral Chapel is in charge of the arrangements. Visitation will be held at Bates Funeral Chapel on Thursday from 11:00 a.m. until 1:15 p.m. with the family present to greet friends and relatives. Memorials may be made to the World Gospel Mission.
