Colleen Murray Bonack

Colleen Murray Bonack, went home to Jesus on September 12, 2025 at the age of 90, leaving behind a legacy of faith and love. A woman of deep Christian faith, Colleen lived a life defined by kindness, generosity, and devotion to her family and community.

Colleen was born on March 23, 1935, to Walter and Jeannette Murray in Eagle River. Colleen spent her early years in Hiles, attending Hiles School. Her family later moved to Three Lakes, where they owned and operated Murray’s Drury Lane Resort. A 1952 graduate of Three Lakes High School, Colleen began her career at Milwaukee Plate and Glass and later worked for Himes Lumber Company in Crandon, and Kansas City, Mo. 

On February 4, 1956, Colleen married her beloved Duane Bonack at the Parish Hall in Three Lakes, embarking on a 69-year journey of love and partnership. After working at Three Lakes High School, she devoted herself to raising their family. From 1972-1997, Colleen and Duane owned the Three Lakes Dairy Queen, where her warm smile and generous heart made it a cherished community hub. They also owned the Three Lakes Bakery, Bonack Redi-Mix and Duane Bonack Construction. A devoted member of her church, Colleen served as an organist and youth group leader, and she gave generously of her time at the Three Lakes Christian Food Pantry. 

Colleen is survived by her devoted husband Duane, and their four children: Jeannette (Terry) Maney of Three Lakes, Martin (Lynn) Bonack of Waupaca, Melissa (Scott) Wick of Sugar Camp, and Shannon (Alan) Votis of Three Lakes. Her legacy lives on through her grandchildren: Tyler (Nicole) Maney, with great-grandchildren Gavin and Ashton; Dillon (Kristy) Maney, with great-grandchildren, Braydon and Chandler; Forrest (Jess) Bonack, with great-grandchildren Lilly and Evie; Brook (Guy) Carlson, with great-grandchildren Cora and Tahlia; Thor (Briana) Wick, with great-grandchildren Laken and Hartford; and Sela Wick. She is also survived by her sisters-in-law Shirley Murray, Jill Nelson, Alma (Stephen Conway), and brothers-in-law Bill (Patty) Bonack and Frank (Trudy) Bonack and many nieces and nephews who lovingly called her Aunt Coke. 

Colleen was preceded in death by her parents, Walter and Jeannette Murray; her brothers Pat, Richard, and Ronald Murray; and her in-laws Fred and Maxine Bonack, Lola and Bob Bass, Butch and Bonnie Bonack, Dona and Whitey Lehman, Vicky and Johnny Pitlik, Mary Murray, Martha Murray, and many nieces and nephews. 

A memorial service will be held to celebrate Colleen’s life. Details will be announced at a later date. 

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Moments Hospice and Friendly Village for their love and compassion shown to our mother and wife in her final days. 

Arrangements by Gaffney-Busha Funeral Home, Eagle River. Online condolences may be expressed at gaffney-busha.com.