Gwendolyn Marie Bonneau

Gwendolyn M. Bonneau, age 81, passed away peacefully at home on November 19, 2025, surrounded by her loving sons.

Gwendolyn was born on October 28, 1944, in Washington, D.C., to A.J. Gafford and Mary Helen Susanka. She graduated from Marycrest High School in 1962 and continued her education at the Portland Museum Art School, now known as the Pacific Northwest College of Art, as well as Portland State University. Her love of learning and creativity led her back to school in 1992 at Chemeketa Community College, where she graduated in 1994 Summa Cum Laude with a degree in Graphic Design.

In 1964, Gwendolyn married the love of her life, John Bonneau, at All Saints Catholic Church..

Gwendolyn had a deep appreciation for the beauty in the world around her. She loved reading, music, thoughtful conversations, and art. She loved camping and the outdoors. Her creativity and love for life were woven into everything she did. Above all, what brought her the greatest joy was spending time with her family and friends. She cherished every moment spent with the people she loved and leaves behind a legacy of warmth, kindness, and devotion.

Gwendolyn was preceded in death by her parents; her sister, Rosemary; her brother, Dennis; and her husband, John.

She is survived by her sister, Gloria; her brother, Mike; her five loving sons, Mitchell, Bryce, Travis, Tycian, and Merrick; nine grandchildren; and dozens of cousins, nieces and nephews, who will forever carry her memory in their hearts.

A celebration of Gwendolyn's life will be held on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, at Holy Redeemer Church, 25 N Rosa Parks Way, Portland, OR 97217. The Rosary will begin at 9:30 AM, followed by the funeral service at 10:00 AM. A potluck gathering will follow the service at Peninsula Park, where family and friends are invited to continue sharing memories and celebrating Gwendolyn's life.