Bonnie Jean Bertagnoli

MCHENRY, Ill. — Bonnie Jean Bertagnoli, 63, passed away on Feb. 9, 2022, in McHenry, after a brief, though courageous battle with cancer. She was surrounded by her family, and lovingly cared for in her final months by her beloved companion, Don Nelson.

Bonnie was preceded in death by her parents, John and Mary Kay Bertagnoli. She is survived by her devoted partner Don Nelson; and siblings, Jim (JoAnn) Bertagnoli, Joan (Dennis) Kostac, Jack (Patti) Bertagnoli and Brigett Blise (Tony Towslee).

Bonnie was born on Sept. 19, 1958, in Ironwood, Michigan. She graduated from Hurley High School in 1976 and moved to Milwaukee where she briefly attended the Patricia Stevens Career College. Uninterested in the finishing school curriculum, Bonnie left Milwaukee and went on to earn a degree in accounting from the University of Minnesota, Duluth. She spent several years in management for various international organizations before founding her own business in McHenry in 2005. Through Kiddie Campus Inc., Bonnie touched the lives of hundreds of children for over a decade.

Bonnie and Don enjoyed spending time in Northern Wisconsin during the summer months. They loved the small-town 4th of July celebrations, Heritage Days and Festival Italiano in Hurley where they reunited with old friends and classmates, while always making new friendships.

Bonnie will be remembered for her compassion and generosity, especially toward children and animals. She opened her home and heart as a foster parent and rescued countless dogs and cats from animal shelters. She loved her friends almost as much as her pets and could always be counted on for fun and laughs. Bonnie was at her best as an Auntie; she is adored by her nieces and nephews, Sara, Jacob, Marc, Katie, Pamela, Jaclyn, Ryan and Abby. She will be forever missed.

Funeral arrangements have not yet been finalized, but will take place over the summer in Hurley. In honor of Bonnie’s passion for animals, please consider making a contribution to your local shelter.