There will be a private celebration of life later this summer for James Bonnstetter, 94, of Milford.
James “Jim” Bonnstetter was born on July 31, 1929, to Opal and Ernest Bonnstetter. He passed away at Accura Healthcare in Milford, Iowa, on March 2, 2024, at the age of 94. Jim graduated from Corwith, Iowa High School in 1947.
In 1948, he enlisted in the US Navy and served until 1952. In 1953,he joined the Iowa Highway Patrol as a State Trooper, assigned to District 6 in Spencer, IA,until his retirement in 1987. He spent many of the later years as a Public Safety Officer. For a short time after retirement, he worked as a recruiter for Northwest Community College in Sheldon, Iowa. Jim helped construct the new Smoky Mountain Central Railroad display in the Depot building at the Spencer fairgrounds. During the Clay County Fair, he worked the switch board at the display.
In 1955, he married Mavis Geurink from Orange City, Iowa, and they have lived in West Okoboji, IA for 68 years. He was a member of Faith Community Church.
He is survived by his wife,and children,Bridget Wahl, Bret (Karen) Bonnstetter, and Bart (Cathy) Bonnstetter; grandchildren include Michelle, Erin, Evan, Grant, Zachary, Bryce, Courtney, Dylan and Emma as well as 8 great-grandchildren; brother,Ron Bonnstetter, of Scottsdale, AZ. He was preceded in death by his sister JoAnn and brother Bill.
Turner Jenness Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.
