Bonnie Lou Gazdag, 74, of Kalamazoo, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on Monday, November 9, 2026, in Kalamazoo.
She was born March 29, 1952, in Kalamazoo, Michigan, the daughter of Walter VanAntwerp and Doris (Henry) VanAntwerp.
Bonnie was a devout Christian and active member of Kalamazoo Community Church. She assisted with small groups and cooking for events. She embraced the Word of God and loved talking to others about her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Bonnie was known as the best gift-giver ever and a talented crafter. Her thoughtfulness shone through in the gifts her friends and family received. Whether it be a wedding, baby or bridal shower, birthday party or holiday get-together; Bonnie was there with a gift in hand and a homemade card. No one was ever left out when it came to receiving gifts. She was truly a people person and enjoyed spending time with her family and friends and spreading love.
A big part of Bonnie’s life was the farm and agriculture. Bonnie raised hogs and Angus cattle for many years. She farmed her entire life and was an impactful member of the Michigan farming community. Bonnie was also a 4-H leader and worked for Michigan State University Extension as a 4-H program assistant. She loved working with the 4-H members and families, and helping them become the best versions of themselves. She was a member of Farm Bureau, participated in the Michigan Agriculture Leadership Program (MALP) and had the opportunity to travel abroad to China, Korea and Thailand in 1986.
She loved being a mom to her daughter, Angie. She strived to provide her with the best childhood and unlimited love and care. She created fun games for simple chores and immersed Angie in her love for the arts, musical theater and travel. Later on in life, Bonnie was fortunate enough to share the same games and experiences with her granddaughter, Nela, nieces and nephews.
Bonnie was a light to all who met her. She made everyone feel welcomed and showered them with kindness. She always saw the good in people no matter what. She had an excellent sense of humor and enjoyed making jokes. She loved and accepted everyone for who they were.
She liked to travel and would never pass up a trip somewhere. Adventurous in nature, Bonnie was always trying new things and new foods. She lived life to the fullest. Bonnie enjoyed tending to her beautiful garden outside her home. Her favorite flowers were Poppies. She was an avid Michigan State fan as well. Bonnie adored her Spartans – Go Green!
Bonnie was a testament of strength, resilience, love, kindness and everything good in the world. Her absence will be deeply felt but her spirit will live on forever in the hearts of those who loved her.
She is survived by her husband, Steven J. Gazdag; daughter, Angeline (Zebulon) Strait; granddaughter, Penelope Strait; sister, Barb (Neil) Van Bruggen; nieces and nephews, Kelly (Chad) DeRidder, Sandy Henderson, Joe (Bobbie) Van Bruggen; Jenny (Chad) Spencer and Stephen (Lisa) Waters; and sister-in-law, Sue Waters.
Bonnie was preceded in passing by her parents and sister-in-law, Sara (Bob) Wicklein.
Family and friends are invited to visit on Saturday, November 14, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Kalamazoo Community Church, 2435 N. 26th Street, Kalamazoo. A funeral service will begin at 2:00 p.m. with Pastor Kenny Bryant officiating. Light refreshments and dessert will follow the service at the church.
Memorial contributions may be directed to Kalamazoo Community Church, 2435 N. 26th Street, Kalamazoo, MI 49048 or the LaBelle 4-H Small Animal Club of Hendry County, 1085 Pratt Road, LaBelle, FL 33935.
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