February 27, 2023 at 6:56 p.m.
Bonita L. (Schillinger) Johnson
Bonita L. (Schillinger) Johnson
Bonnie was born in Green Bay on July 19, 1949 to her parents, Joseph and Gertrude Schillinger. Bonnie was the eldest of 11 siblings, often having the responsibility of watching over her younger siblings and reached out in love toward them throughout her life.
Bonnie was married to Kenny (Kenneth) Johnson in Woodruff, in 1973 until Kenny passed away September 29, 2021.
Bonnie graduated from St. Joseph Academy in Green Bay, on June 3, 1968, and relocated to Minocqua with her family upon graduation. She received her certificate for nursing assistants sponsored by Nicolet College Technical Institute at Lakeland Memorial Hospital, Woodruff, on May 14, 1969 and worked as a nursing assistant at Lakeland Memorial Hospital for many years. Bonnie also worked as the head baker/cook at Cross Trails Restaurant in Minocqua. Her labor of love was being a group home manager, working with adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, in Rhinelander. She worked in this position for approximately 30 years. Bonnie and Ken resided in the Minocqua area, until relocation to Washington township (Eagle River).
Bonnie was a member of St. Mary of the Snows Church in Eagle River. She was a member of Senior Eagle River Volunteer Enterprises (S.E.R.V.E.) and often volunteered at Share fundraising and outreach activities within the community. She was devoted to serving and advocating for the disabled and elderly.
Bonnie was described by her family as kind and generous to all. She loved baking and cooking. They felt very blessed to sit down with a meal prepared with love by her. Her banana nut bread was frequently made to give thanks to all that extended a healing hand her way. Her love of animals surrounding her home was a sight to see and share with others. Daily handouts of feed to deer, birds, chipmunks, and turkeys was a large financial undertaking which was a necessity on her part but graced her and those around her with much joy. She loved greatly, and always was willing to listen and share compassion. She was willing to share her feelings of love, and always was sure for you to know how wonderful you were to her. When you were down, she was able to lift you up. She had a clear mind of what was right and just and if you wandered, she was patient and loving to guide you back. She never gave up hope on you and always shared all the wonderful positive attributes you had.
Bonnie was selfless and ever guiding her younger siblings to make the right choices no matter how difficult. She was the mother of all reminding us that love and forgiveness are most important. Bonnie was truly God’s grace to us all. She will be missed beyond words.
Bonnie is survived by her siblings: Michael (Carolyn) Schillinger, Clarksville, Tenn.; Patrick (Beth ) Schillinger, Arbor Vitae; Nancy(Steve) Yeschek, McHenry, Ill.; Mary (Brad) Smith, Lake Side, Mont.; Sue (Tom )Schlecht, Minocqua; Deb (Mike Pecore) Schillinger, Minocqua; Kim (Mark) Bagnoli, Hollywood, Fla.; Karen (Ray) Anderson, Park Falls; Joseph Schillinger, Rhinelander; and Christopher Schillinger, Verona. She also is survived by many nieces, nephews, and in-laws. Bonnie leaves behind her loving caretaker Laurie, close friend Mary Bea Good, and her beloved friend and caretaker, Nelani Nettrour. Bonnie is also survived by her beloved bird, Buttercup.
Bonnie was preceded in death by her parents: Joseph and Gertrude Schillinger; loving husband: Ken Johnson; nephew: Mikey Egtvedt; and her cherished bird RT.
A celebration of life is scheduled for July 17 at St. Mary of the Snows Church in Eagle River. Father Jim Fosdick will officiate. A meal will be provided immediately following the service, with burial at Evergreen Cemetery in Woodruff to follow the meal.
Arrangements by Gaffney-Busha Funeral Home, Eagle River. Online condolences may be expressed at gaffney-busha.com.
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