Obituary of Phil Bonneau

"You're gonna miss this. You're gonna want this back. You're gonna wish these days hadn't gone by so fast. These are some good times to take a good look around, you may not know this now, but you're gonna miss this" -Trace Adkins

It is with broken hearts that we announce the passing of our dad, Philias Theodore BONNEAU of Assiniboia, SK, Formerly of Willow Bunch, SK. Dad wore many hats during his lifetime: son, brother, husband, dad, grandpa, great-grandpa, and friend, to name but a few. Dad passed away peacefully on July 19, 2024, at the age of 87. Born October 8, 1936, in Willow Bunch, SK, Dad is the 9th child of 19 born to Lumina (ROY) and Jean Pascal BONNEAU. Dad often fondly recalled the mornings he spent with his mom when she would rise long before the family to heat the house. Those moments were precious to him. He spent his formative years at the convent in Forget, SK, and a short time in Gravelbourg, SK. In 1963, he married Grace HENRICKSON, and the following year, they welcomed their first child, Yvonne, followed by Gary in 1973 and Shirley in 1976. The family called Regina home from 1970 to 1984 when Dad realized his dream of returning to Willow Bunch. Dad held multi-journeyman status' in mechanic, plumbing, and electrical, a feat not accomplished by many. Nearing 50, Dad took on the caretaking position at the school, believing that the caretaker is the heart of the school.

He loved the school setting, specifically the kids. He remained there until 1991, when he semi-retired and officially opened his small engine repair business. He worked on small engines from miles around until his eyesight began to fail, although we're certain he could rebuild a carburetor with his eyes closed!

In 1985, he was promoted to Grandpa, which was one of the greatest highlights of his life. Dad looked forward to the births of each new baby as they came along. Justin (1985), Tammy (1988), Kara (1990), Zachary (1994), Christina (2001), Kurtis (2001), Jillian (2008), Kyle (2009), and Erynn (2011). To his great joy, he became a great-grandfather in 2008 with 16 new babies to love between 2008 and 2021. Without a doubt, Dad viewed his family as his greatest accomplishment in life. He loved nothing better than feeding people and critters alike, from his "famous" breakfasts to perfecting his Tourtiere and BBQ ribs (cooked in the oven!!) to some of the best pies we've ever eaten! Dad loved to sit outside and people-watch when he wasn't busy feeding people. We all enjoyed listening to the many stories of his life and treasured the memories he shared.

While all family gatherings were cherished, none more so than our last gathering in June 2024, as we knew time was becoming increasingly precious. Almost every child, grandchild, and great-grandchild gathered to celebrate Dad. To quote Dad, "It was the best day of my life."

Dad is predeceased by his parents Lumina and JP BONNEAU, 5 sisters, 6 brothers, and numerous brothers and sisters-in-law. He is survived by his children Yvonne (Rob) NAGY, Gary (Cathy), Shirley (Tracy) KARST, and their mother Grace. Grandchildren Justin (Candace), Tammy (Scott), Kara, Zachary (Marly), Christina, Kurtis, Jillian, Kyle and Erynn.

Step grandchildren Makyla (Josh) and Kenya; great-grandchildren Olivia, Kaden, Elijah, Owen, Connor, Gabriel, Ava, Sophia, Lucas, Jackson, Adeline, Jensen, Archer, and Brynlee; and step-great-grandchildren Kyius and Keyva. Dad is also survived by three sisters and four brothers.

They say a dad is a son's first hero and a daughter's first love; truer words have never been spoken.

Dad ended every conversation (on the phone or in person) with, "Say hi to everyone, make sure, and give those babies a great big hug and kiss from me." So, Dad, until we see you again, say hi to everyone and give them all a big hug and kiss from us. We will love you forever.