Bonnie J. Reetz, 83, of Hiawatha, was born on a farm outside of White Cloud, KS, on February 23, 1938, to Woodrow & Hazel (Lear) Bryan. She passed away on May 2, 2021 at Amberwell Hospital in Hiawatha, KS, surrounded by family.

Bonnie graduated from Robinson High School with the Class of 1956. She then attended Kansas State University and received her Bachelor’s degree in Home Economics. Bonnie was a wonderful seamstress and enjoyed being creative with her sewing. Her time at Kansas State turned her into an avid K-State fan, and she was rarely seen without purple.

Owning and operating the Inn Shoppe clothing store in downtown Hiawatha was an integral part of Bonnie’s life. She later was the Director of the Hiawatha Chamber of Commerce and worked at the Brown County Historical Society’s Ag Museum. Bonnie had a love for history and sharing her expertise with others.

Bonnie cared for those around her. Being an animal lover, she had many pets throughout her lifetime- dogs, cats, horses… you name it!  She took pride in caring for every one of them. Aside from caring for her animals, one of Bonnie’s greatest joys was hearing about her great nieces and nephews and their accomplishments.

Bonnie was preceded in death by her parents, a sister Lu Hallauer, brother in-law Warren Pray, and companion Ray Hatt.

Survivors include a brother, Jerry (Wanda) Bryan of Hiawatha; sister Bea Pray of Estero, Florida; brother in-law Virgil Hallauer; niece Michelle (John) Wright; nephews Rick (Deb) Bryan, Terry Hallauer, and Von Hallauer; and 6 great nieces and nephews.

Friends may call at the Chapel Oaks Funeral Home, in Hiawatha  beginning Monday, May 10 after 10 a.m.   to sign the register book, view pictures, and remember Bonnie.  Family graveside services will be held at later date at Mt. Hope Cemetery, Hiawatha.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Brown County Humane Society sent in care of funeral home, 124 S 7th St., 66434.

Those wishing to leave a note or remembrance for the family can be sent to www.chapeloaksfuneralhome.com