Bonnie Mark

Bonnie Mark (née Biittner), 79, of Manteno, Illinois, passed away peacefully on April 11, 2026. Born on March 13, 1947, in Chicago, Bonnie was the beloved daughter of Walter and Alfhild (née Erickson) Biittner. Bonnie married her high school sweetheart and the love of her life, Eugene “Gene” Mark, on September 10, 1966, in Homewood, Illinois. Together, they built a beautiful life, sharing nearly 60 years of marriage and countless memories—many of them spent side by side on the water, fishing. Bonnie took great pride in her catches, but even more in the time spent with her best friend, Gene. Bonnie was a dedicated employee of the LeSage family at EJ Equipment, where her kindness, reliability, and dedication left a lasting impression. Her colleagues, who were like family, appreciated her steady presence and the genuine care she brought to those around her. A longtime resident of Manteno, since 1974, Bonnie was a devoted member of Community Presbyterian Church, where she served communion monthly and was a cherished part of the community. She was a gentle, kind soul with a practical mind and a fun and lighthearted sense of humor that could turn simple moments into lots of laughter. She had a way of making others feel immediately welcome—greeting you with warmth, asking about your life, and turning every conversation toward others rather than herself. She never forgot a birthday and always sent a card, a small but meaningful reflection of her thoughtfulness. She enjoyed cooking for others and was especially known for her rainbow Jell-O dessert, a simple treat that became a favorite among family and friends. Bonnie grew up in a family that loved music. She played the piano, her brother played the flute and saxophone, her mother played piano and her father played the violin. She sang in her high school choir and served as an accompanist. Bonnie enjoyed playing duets with her brother—even if they didn’t always keep perfect time. She held a deep love for Wisconsin, especially Chetek, where she spent many happy days fishing and enjoying the peaceful surroundings. Those trips, like so much of her life, were simple, meaningful, and full of quiet happiness. Though she was happiest close to home, she also had a special place in her heart for Walt Disney World, where she appreciated the magic and Disney princesses, reflecting her appreciation for life’s simple joys. She was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved daughter, Victoria Lynn; and her loving cats, Freddie, Snookie, Dusty, Frieda, and Tommy Boy. Bonnie is survived by her loving husband, Gene; her brother Dennis; sisters-in-laws: Janis Cadieux, Joan Gettings, Julie Brulloths; and many nieces and nephews: Jeremy (Kala) Biittner and their son Jackson; Rachel (Tony) Langenohl and their children Maggie and Keegan; Mark Kuroski; Cher (Jeff) Arseneau and her children Steven and Caitlyn Bell; Paul (Lecia) Cadieux; Jennifer Gettings; Mark (Diane) Gettings; Stephanie (Casey) Jackl and their children Isaac and Marcus; Jacob (Ada) Brulloths and their children Jada, Bonnie, Luna, and Jacob II; and Valerie Brulloths. She also leaves behind extended family and friends who will miss her deeply. Bonnie was someone you could always count on—steady, kind, and present. A rule follower, you would never catch her exceeding the speed limit. She lit up any room she was in, carried a gentle spirit, and left people feeling cared for simply by being herself. She was a perfect reflection of her mother and shared the same sweetness and kindness throughout her life. She was the kind of person you were grateful to have known. Her loss is deeply felt, and she will be missed beyond words.