PALMER – Robert E. Bonkowski, 70, (1951 – 2022) passed away June 17, 2022 with his loving wife by his side. Bob was born on December 1, 1951 in Westfield to the late Edward and Bernice (Sczuczynski) Bonkowski. He graduated from Westfield High School and attended Westfield State University. Graduating from Springfield Technical Community College, Bob earned a Dean’s List Award, a President’s List Award, and an Alpha Nu Omega Society Award. He previously worked in Shipping and Receiving at Columbia Manufacturing, Buxton Manufacturing, Carando Inc., and Waldman Publishing. Bob was a lover of dogs and cats, of which he had many. He leaves behind his dog Molly and his cat Tess. He was an avid gardener and enjoyed creating multiple flower gardens for his wife. Bob was also a self-taught fractal artist and produced many beautiful works of fractal art.
Bob was predeceased by his father Edward, mother Bernice, and his sister Linda Emerson. He will be dearly missed by his beloved wife, Patrice (McIntosh) Bonkowski; stepsons, Jeremy Atkinson of Westfield and Stephen Atkinson and wife Mallori of Erie, CO; and his 2 grandsons, Declan and Gavin. He also leaves behind his brother, David Bonkowski and wife Jamie of Hermitage, TN; and his sister-in-law Diane McIntosh and wife Pat James of Palmer.
A period of visitation will be held on Wednesday, June 29th from 4:00-6:00 p.m. with a Celebration of Bob’s Life to begin at 6:00 p.m. at the Beers & Story Palmer Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to an animal rescue shelter of your choice. Please visit http://www.beersandstory.com to extend online condolences.
