Jerry Bonham

Jun 29, 1943 -

Oct 10, 2020

Jerry V. Bonham, beloved son, brother, husband, dad and grandfather passed away at his home in Wasilla, Alaska, on Oct. 10, 2020. Jerry was born on June 29, 1943, in Redding, Calif., to James and Verna Bonham. He grew up in a small town in Northern California, where he and his brother Tom spent many an adventure in the outdoors fishing, hunting, hiking and camping. He graduated from Fall River Mills High School in 1961.

In 1962, Jerry joined the U.S. Navy. He completed his studies in diesel mechanics at the Naval Training Center in Illinois. He also had amphibious training. He was shipped off to Vietnam and other parts of the world during active duty.

After service to his country Jerry became a mechanic and a job with Firestone Corporation brought him to Roseburg, Ore. On Feb. 14, 1975, he married Connie Clark. He taught scuba diving and was also a volunteer with Search & Rescue as a scuba diver. After several children and 10 years they decided to follow friends to Alaska just for the adventure.

They have resided in Anchorage for 35 years. Jerry worked for Mark Air for 10 years then FedEx for many years until his retirement. This past summer a move to Wasilla brought them closer to family. He spent the summer cutting down trees, playing corn hole, ATVing, barbecuing and hanging out with family and friends around the fire pit.

Jerry leaves behind his wife, Connie Bonham; children, Mary Bonham, James Bonham, Jeremy Bonham and Jessica Bonham; granddaughter, Madison Bonham; plus many extended family in the Lower 48. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother.

A private family service will be held next summer and his ashes will be scattered at his favorite places and the remainder interred on his son's 5 acres with a headstone and a quiet reflective place to sit. Jerry always said he felt closest to God when he was outdoors. In remembrance of Jerry, go outside and enjoy his favorite pastimes. Fish, hike, hunt, camp and enjoy what nature has to offer. Live life to the fullest.