Rita Mae "Bonnie" Egenhoefer

Rita Mae Egenhoefer, affectionately known by those who knew and loved her as Bonnie, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her family on February 27, 2021.  Although diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, she enjoyed life at home while being lovingly cared for by her devoted husband, until additional medical problems resulted in her surrendering to the Almighty.

Bonnie is preceded in death by her parents, Barbara and Theodore Kenowski, sisters Lorraine Koraleski and Diane Kenowski, brothers Gil Goetz and Leonard Goetz and infant son Gene Paul. She is survived by her beloved husband of 55 years, Jack Egenhoefer, daughters Julie (Mike) Springer and Jill (Greg) Baker, and adored grandsons John, Josh and Thomas Baker. She is also survived by her sister and friend, Roselyn (Gerry) Pacyna and numerous nieces and nephews.

Bonnie was born and raised in Stevens Point, WI where she eventually met her husband, Jack. After attending the University of Wisconsin Stevens Point for two years, she married and moved to Indiana as a result of her husband’s job and has been a Hoosier ever since.

Bonnie was an avid supporter of her daughters’ involvement in sports where she enjoyed supplying team snacks and yelling at refs. She was proud to teach ceramics, craft and art classes and relished her over 30 year career with the South Bend Tribune, where she received the Franklin D. Schurz award. Both Bonnie and Jack were active members of Holy Cross Parrish until moving to Granger, where they are  members of  St. Pius X church. Bonnie is known for her love of animals, especially watching and feeding the backyard guests, her sense of humor, and having the ability to have a conversation with anyone, anytime and anywhere.

A family celebration will be held at a later date in her hometown of Stevens Point, Wisconsin. Palmer Funeral Homes-Welsheimer North Chapel and Southlawn Cremation Services are assisting the family with arrangements.

In remembrance of Bonnie, please commit to an act of kindness. Memorial donations in honor of Rita Mae Egenhoefer may be made to Heartland Hospice, 230 W Catalpa Dr D, Mishawaka, IN 46545. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.