Bonnie Vera Helen Monroe, also lovingly known as Benjii and Grammy, age 71, a longtime resident of Clear Lake, Washington passed away at home, surrounded by her family, May 15, 2024.  She was born April 15, 1953, in Seattle, WA to William Keith and Alice May (Jackman) Bledsoe.

Bonnie's early years were spent cultivating her lifelong love for Washington's natural beauty.  She cherished summers spent at her family's cabin on Camano Island, passing countless hours enjoying the beach.  She joined the Girl Scouts at a young age and remained a member for the rest of her life.  She had a great love for Camp Robbinswold, a love that she shared with her whole family.  Among the girls and young women she helped discover the wonders of nature were her own daughters, for whom she served as a troop leader.

Before having children of her own, Bonnie was the nanny for Daniel, Peter and Lilly, who she referred to as her first babies.

Bonnie worked for many years as a paraeducator in the Sedro-Woolley School District, where her students were met with an educator for whom working with kids was not just a profession, but also a passion.  Outside of work, Bonnie's interests were many and varied.  She loved bookstores and libraries, and discovering books, particularly mystery novels, to share with others.  She played the cello in high school and became a lifelong admirer of classical music.  Her interest in genealogy led to extensive work putting together her family tree, a project that she loved to share with others.  Her passion for nature and travel inspired many family road trips to explore national parks across the western United States and Canada.  Many of her interests and passions live on in her children, Ben, Tessa, Moira and Murray.

Bonnie also enjoyed folk dancing, which is where she met her beloved husband, Roger.  Before they married, Roger took her to Scotland, a very special place to him.  Never one to miss the opportunity to explore, Bonnie returned from their trip with a special place in her heart for Scotland as well.

More than anything, Bonnie delighted in meeting, talking to and connecting with people.  She truly never met a stranger, and could easily coax your life story out of you shortly after meeting.  Bonnie's affection for those around her did not stop with humans, as the many cats, dogs and even hedgehogs she cared for can attest.

Shortly before her passing, Bonnie enjoyed a sunny Mother's Day in the loving company of her children and grandchildren.

Bonnie is survived by her husband, Roger Monroe; first husband, Wesly Olin Holm; children, Benjamin (Anna) Holm, Tessa (Christopher) Holm James, Moira Monroe and Murray Monroe; grandchildren, Justine Henderson, Karin Henderson, Pepper Holm, Piper James and Tegan James; brother-in-law, Robert Monroe; numerous cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents; daughter, Margaret Rose Monroe.

A Memorial Service will be held at 3:30pm, Monday, June 17, 2024, at Lemley Chapel, Sedro-Woolley, Vivian Holm presiding.

Please share your memories of Bonnie and sign the online guest register.