Harry Glenn Bonner completed his earthly journey and entered the presence of Jesus Christ early on Thursday, November 24, 2016. He left this world with a wake of generosity and a particular insight to the human condition that was a comfort to those who knew him. He was a beloved pastor and a wise, discerning leader and skillful peacemaker in the communities and organizations in which he lived and served. To his family he was a cherished husband, father, and “Pa”.
Harry was born September 13, 1927 and grew up in Streetman, TX, a place where the historic Bonner Family Cemetery speaks to grounding of the family in the community since the 1850s, but as his father told him, “Son, we raise eagles, not pigeons,” and the small-town boy left for the larger world.
After a stint in the Army and studying at Baylor University and Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, Harry set on a course that would change the lives of many and build the Kingdom of God along the way. With his wife, Martha Belle Bonner (née Stroud), he moved to the Pacific Northwest where he continued to pastor churches in Oregon and Washington. Even while pouring continually into the lives of his own children, many will identify Harry and Martha as surrogate parents and grandparents.
He made many moves that he hoped would be in the best interest of his family, and trusted the Lord to make the best of his choices and pursuits. Harry continued with Southern Baptist denominational work in Nashville, San Diego, and again in the Northwest. Harry and Martha were able to snowbird between adult children and their families in Washington and Arizona before finally settling in Sun City, AZ.
Harry was often the most memorable presence in the room, and more remarkably, he remembered most of the room, regularly recalling tidbits of others’ excellence and valuable qualities. He recognized his need to continue to share the truth and peace of Jesus with those around him. He mentored and guided with wisdom and care; he was a perceptive and honest confidante. His strength of character and steadfast faithfulness to the Lord Jesus have left his family “legacy rich.”
Harry is preceded in death by his wife, Martha, parents, John L. and Eleanor Belle (née Bass), and brother, Bobby.
He is survived by his three children – Stephen (Gloria) of Rio Rancho, NM; Elizabeth of Mira Mesa, CA; and Glenn (Wendy) of Battle Ground, WA; three grandsons – Johnathan (Jennifer) of Grand Junction, CO; Kellen of San Francisco, CA; and Noah of Seattle, WA; and two great-granddaughters – Campbell and Whitley of Grand Junction, CO. The family plans on holding a private memorial celebration together in Arizona during January 2017.
Those wishing to sign the guest book may visit: www.caminodelsol.com
Memorial contributions may be sent to the Northwest Baptist Foundation, 3200 NE109th Ave., Vancouver, WA 98682.
