Obituary of Joanne Bonomi (nee Baker)
Bonomi, Joanne (nee Baker) -
Peacefully at Henley House on Tuesday, August 8th, 2017 surrounded by family. Joanne died in her 79th year with the dignity and grace with which she lived her life. Beloved wife of Louis Bonomi. Much loved mother to Mari Jo Smolak (Ted) and Mike Bonomi (Yola). Proud Gran to Frances, Alix, Matt and Kris whom she loved deeply. Survived by her brother, Reade Baker (Janis) and sister, Judy Leach. Joanne will be missed immensely by her family and friends. Born in Port Dalhousie on April 1st, 1939 to Joe and Rosemary Baker (nee McMahon). Port was always an important part of her life. As a child, Joanne grew up at 22 Brock Street and spent countless hours at the McMahon farm on Main Street. She met Louis, the love of her life and her husband, at Lakeside Park over 60 years ago. Their marriage was based upon unconditional love and respect for each other. A devout Catholic, Joanne was baptized and married at Star of the Sea Church and attended St. Ann School and Loretto Academy. She began a life long career as an educator at 16 years of age. As a teacher, librarian and early childhood education consultant, she was most comfortable sitting in her rocking chair surrounded by children. Despite their young age, she respected and treated each and everyone of her students as a special person and worked tirelessly to ensure those less fortunate were given equal opportunity to develop and grow. After retirement in 1990, her grandchildren became the beneficiaries of her knowledge and passion for teaching. They are forever grateful. Joanne was an intelligent, loving and courageous woman who taught by example in all that she did. Most importantly, she was selfless. Joanne's character was such that she always thought of others before she thought of herself. As a wife, mother, grandmother, teacher and friend, she was truly remarkable. Arrangements are entrusted to the George Darte Funeral Home, 905-937-4444. A funeral mass will be held at Star of the Sea Church, 34 Elgin Street on Friday, August 11th, 2017 at 12 p.m. In accordance with Joanne's wishes, there will be no visitation and cremation has taken place. Prior to mass, you may pay your respects to the family at the Church between 10:30 a.m. to 11:45 a.m.. Following the mass, a celebration of her life will be held at the Parish Hall between 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. A private family burial will take place at a later date at Victoria Lawn Cemetery. The family wish to thank the staff at Henley House for their care and kindness over the past five years and Fr. Richard Kowalchuk for his prayers and support. We also deeply appreciate the compassion and comfort provided by Reade, Janis and other family members over Joanne's last few days. Donations may be made to the charity of your choice. Finding a way to make a child smile would make Joanne most happy.
