Bonnie Crystal Crone, 86, of Chanute, Kansas, passed away Wednesday, Dec. 24, 2025, at Neosho Memorial Regional Medical Center.
She was born July 20, 1939, in Chanute to Edgar and Mabel (Trent) Kustanborter. Bonnie graduated from Chanute High School and later married Bill Gericke. The marriage ended in divorce.
Bonnie worked for several years at the Chanute City Landfill and Walmart, but her favorite role was being a mother. She was grateful to stay home to care for her family and manage the household.
She was a member of Otterbein Community Church of Chanute, where she volunteered for many church events. Known for her caring nature, Bonnie was also active in the community, frequently visiting residents at local nursing homes simply to spend time and visit with them.
In her free time, Bonnie enjoyed traveling on bus trips to destinations such as Branson and attending shows. Above all, she cherished time spent with her family, especially her six grandchildren. Two grandchildren, Danielle and Zack Gericke, were especially close to her, as she lovingly helped raise them.
She was preceded in death by her parents; sons Daniel Ray Gericke, Gary Frank Gericke and John Arthur Gericke; daughter Debra Jo Gericke; and stepmother Leola Felkins Kustanborter.
Survivors include her sons, Ronald Gericke (Freda) and Timothy Gericke and partner Sara Cooper; six grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; daughter-in-law Cynthia Gericke; sister Mary Jane Shaw; and nephew John Shaw.
Visitation will be held at Countryside Funeral Home on Jan. 15, 2026, with the family greeting friends from 5 to 7 p.m. A celebration of life service will be held at 1 p.m. Friday, Jan. 16, 2026, at Otterbein Community Church of Chanute. Services are under the direction of Countryside Funeral Home.
The family extends special thanks to the hospital staff and Dr. Guernsey for their compassionate care, as well as Marlene Marts, Cindy Lane and Pat McClanahan for sitting with Bonnie when family members were unable to be present.
Memorials are suggested to the Cherry Street Youth Center or by adding someone to your prayer list.
