Bonnie Kay Bernarde, 57, of Birnamwood, passed away on Monday, March 2, 2026, at Aspirus Hospital in Wausau, where she was welcomed into heaven and reunited with her father.
Bonnie was born on March 19, 1968, and lived her life with a vibrant spirit, a generous heart, and a deep love for her family. She was united in marriage to the love of her life, Jon Bernarde, and together they built a life full of love, laughter, and family. Bonnie was a proud and devoted mother who raised two wonderful sons, and nothing brought her greater joy than watching them grow.
For most of her adult life, Bonnie worked as a Certified Nursing Assistant, dedicating herself to caring for others with compassion and kindness. Her nurturing spirit extended far beyond her profession — it was simply who she was.
Bonnie embraced life fully. She loved snowmobiling, riding UTVs while jamming to her favorite music, and she was a huge Sasquatch believer. Yet above all else, Bonnie treasured time spent with her family. Simply enjoying everyday moments together, those were the times she cherished most.
Bonnie will be deeply missed by her loving husband of 27 years, Jon Bernarde; her two sons, Keegan (Randi) Bernarde of Birnamwood and Keenan (Codi) Bernarde of Birnamwood; and her beloved grandchildren, Kezmai, Paisliee, and Grainger of Birnamwood. She is further survived by her mother, Elsie Matz of Birnamwood; her brothers, Rick Matz of Ringle and John (Shirley) Matz of Goodman; her sisters, Debbie (Doug) Koeller of Birnamwood, Phyllis (Jerry) Clauss of Birnamwood, and Brenda (Manl) Malueg of Antigo; as well as many cherished nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her father, Eugene Matz; her mother-in-law, Betty Bernarde; her father-in-law, David Bernarde; her niece, Melissa Matz; and one precious child lost to miscarriage.
A Celebration of Life honoring Bonnie will be held on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. at Tangle Horn Bar in Eland, Wisconsin. Family and friends are invited to gather to share stories, memories, and laughter in remembrance of a woman whose love and light will continue to shine in the hearts of all who knew her.
Those who wish to share memories or photographs are warmly encouraged to bring them to the celebration.
Bonnie's legacy lives on in the family she adored, the lives she touched through her kindness and the joy she brought into every room she entered. She will be forever loved and never forgotten.
Family and friends may go to MWCS.WS to leave words of remembrance.
