Bonnie Lou Velding

Bonnie Lou Velding, age 70, of Grand Rapids, MI passed away peacefully on February 6, 2025. She lived a life of joy and laughter, and her sense of humor touched the lives of all who knew her.

Bonnie was born in Grand Rapids, MI to loving parents, Josephine (Miller) and Donald Velding. She had a wonderful childhood with her four older sisters and baby brother. Bonnie attended St. Francis Xavier grade school and Catholic Central High School, graduation class of 1972. Following school she held various jobs throughout her life from JC Penney to Barb’s Burgers. She was a Grand Rapids Public School employee, most notably over 40 years working at the John Ball Zoo School.

"Ms. Velding" was the glue that held the Zoo School together. At camp, she was the organization queen, homesick student support, and legendary fireside storyteller. Bonnie was more than just a staff member; she gave a part of her heart to each one of the students who passed through the school doors. Her legacy lives on in each student’s life she touched.

Bonnie loved spending time at her home away from home, her little “B’s Hive” cabin in Baldwin, MI. Bonnie made friends wherever she went and was happiest sitting by the fireside, driving the rumble B, swimming in the lake or attending the Blessing of the Bikes.

Bonnie held many titles over her lifetime, but her favorite was Aunt B or just B. Her laughter was infectious and her language of love. B also had a gift for making those in her life feel special. Every baby was welcomed with beautiful crocheted blankets and you could often find her cheering on her loved ones at competitions, or connecting through text messages and phone calls. Everyone who knew her would agree, B was one of a kind, never to be replaced, and will be missed endlessly. B’s family hopes you will think of her whenever you sit with loved ones by a campfire, remember one of her funny stories, or see a bluebird.

Bonnie was preceded in death by her parents, Josephine and Donald Velding, sister JoAnn, Brother-in-Law Richard Emerich and niece Dawn Emerich. Surviving are her sisters, Donna (John) Slagboom, Patricia (Don) Zoeller, Deborah (Felipe) Herrera; brother, Donald (Kerry) Velding, Jr.; many nieces, nephews, family, friends and beloved dog Inga. Mass of Christian Burial will be held 11:00am on Friday February 28, 2025, at Shrine of St. Francis Xavier & Our Lady of Guadalupe, 250 Brown SE. The family will greet relatives and friends from 10:00am-11:00am at the church. A celebration of life will be held this summer, more information will be shared at a later date.

Memorial contributions to the John Ball Zoo School can be made in Bonnie Velding’s name through City PTSA (https://cityptsa.com/donate/).