Bonnie Jean Ballone

DULUTH, Minn. - Bonnie Jean Ballone, 71, of Wakefield, Michigan, died unexpectedly on Aug. 20, 2020, in Duluth.

She was born in Wakefield on Oct. 5, 1948. She graduated from West Division High School in Milwaukee, with the class of 1966. Bonnie went on to marry the love of her life, Joseph Ballone, on Nov. 29, 1969. Together, the two started their family and settled down in Bessemer, Michigan. After their children grew up, Bonnie and Joe moved to Wakefield to enjoy their 40 acres of land and have lived there ever since.

As Bonnie's children were growing up, she was incredibly involved with the Bessemer PTO, and she taught Sunday School. Bonnie was a great role model who always encouraged and taught her children to be the best versions of themselves. Daily, she demonstrated unconditional love, selflessness and compassion. For many years, she worked at Grand View Hospital and at Rocco Medical Clinic doing clerical work. She was a member of All Saints Lutheran Church of Wakefield. Bonnie enjoyed baking, sewing, painting ceramics, doing crafts, and most of all, spending time with her family.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Jean Belanger; and a sister, Sharon, at birth.

Bonnie is survived by her husband, Joseph; her children, Brooke Gilbertson (Neil) of Saxon, Wisconsin, and Joseph Jr. (Stephanie Carlson-Ballone) of Marquette, Michigan; and her pride and joys, her grandchildren, Ty Gilbertson, Saylor Gilbertson and Bodyn Gilbertson.

A private graveside service will be held at Hillcrest Cemetery in Bessemer, Michigan.

The family has chosen McKevitt-Patrick Funeral Home of Ironwood to honor Bonnie's legacy of life. You can leave a condolence or a tribute at mckevitpatrickfuneralhome.com.

"The Broken Chain"

by Ron Tranmer

We little knew the day that

God was going to call your name.

In life we loved you dearly,

In death we do the same.

It broke our hearts to lose you

But you did not go alone.

For part of us went with you

The day God called you home.

You left us beautiful memories,

Your love is still our guide.

And though we cannot see you,

You are always at our side.

Our family chain is broken

And nothing seems the same,

But as God calls us one by one,

The chain will link again.