BONNETT, Charles "Chuck" - b. April 22, 1932 - d. October 24, 2014

[patyrn]

Charles "Chuck" Bonnett, 82, of Independence, Kansas, formerly of Howard, Kansas, passed away October 24, 2014 at Medicalodges in Independence, Kansas.  Chuck was born on April 22, 1932 in Moscow, Idaho to Robert and Martha Tunstell Bonnett.

Chuck was the youngest of five children.  He attended and graduated from the Moscow public school system.  He worked as a ranch hand in Arizona before continuing his education at Kansas State University.  He was a member of Delta Tau Delta fraternity while attending KSU.  After earning a bachelor's degree in Animal Husbandry, he moved to Elk County to begin his life's work as a rancher.  In addition to ranching in Elk County, Chuck also worked at the Howard State Bank, eventually becoming a Vice-President.  In addition to his ranching and banking pursuits, he repaired farm equipment for Ted Davis Farm Equipment in Howard.  He loved using his mechanical abilities in this job.  It was among the happiest times that he spent in Howard.

Chuck married Carolyn Smith on June 8, 1962.  He was a devoted and loving husband.  The couple was blessed with three children.  Chuck was a patient and loving father who provided well for his family.  He didn't miss a ball game or any other school event in which his children participated.  After retiring from ranching in 1993, Chuck and Carolyn moved to Independence, Kansas.  He was a member of the First Christian Church and participated in the King's Sunday School Class until Carolyn's illness prevented them from attending.  He made a hobby of purchasing old lawnmowers and repairing them so they ran like new.  He was an avid sports fan who enjoyed watching his KSU Wildcats and KC Chiefs and Royals.  He was a social person who enjoyed his coffee bunch at Down Home Cafe until his health prevented him from making his daily rounds.

Chuck is survived by his wife, Carolyn; his children, Mike Bonnett of Independence, Kansas, Todd Bonnett and wife, Teresa of Mount Pleasant, North Carolina, and Katherine "Kathy" Chance and husband, Mark of Belle Plaine, Kansas; his grandchildren, William Chance, Kyle Bonnett, and Ryan Bonnett; and one brother, John Bonnett of Twin Falls, Idaho.  He is preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, and a sister. 

Honoring Mr. Bonnett's wishes, cremation will take place, and a tribute honoring his life will be held Thursday, October 30, 2014 at 10:00 a.m. at the First Christian Church, 319 W. Laurel, Independence, Kansas with Pastor Jack Kyle officiating.  In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to A.W.O.L. (Animals With Our Love of Independence) and the American Lung Association.  To leave a message for the family, please visit www.webbrodrickchapel.com  Webb & Rodrick Chapel & Crematory have been entrusted with the arrangements.

(taken from the Webb & Rodrick Chapel website)