Obituary of Joan Bonkoski

Joan Lorraine Bonkoski February 4, 1941 - May 20, 2013 Joan Lorraine Roof was born in Monroe on February 4, 1941. She was the daughter of the late Frank and Alfreda (Scheely) Roof. Joan graduated from Dundee High School. On October 28, 1961, Joan married the love of her life Daniel Bonkoski. For many years Joan worked as a bookkeeper for Zeiler Excavating, along with making a comfortable home for her family. She was an active member of St. Joseph Catholic Church serving on the Altar Society, Ladies Auxiliary for the Knights of Columbus, serving funeral luncheons, decorating the church for holidays and working at the parish festival. She also was a member of the Luna Pier Senior Citizens and enjoyed playing euchre with her friends. Joan and Daniel for many years worked alongside each other on home improvement and remodeling projects. She also enjoyed working in the yard, sewing, and quilting. Joan was a very generous individual she was always supportive of those around her and shied away from the spotlight. Joan was particularly proud of her grandchildren and was a frequent fixture at their events. Joan Bonkoski age 72 of Erie passed away peacefully on Monday, May 20, 2013 at home. In addition to her parents, her passing was preceded by her husband; an infant daughter: Elizabeth; five brothers: Robert, Richard, Clarence, George, and Frank Jr. Roof; and one sister: Dorothy Liedel. To cherish her memory she leaves three children: Raymond (Barbara) Bonkoski of LaSalle, Veronica (Joseph) Smith of Temperance, Julie (Patrick) Foley of Erie; five sisters: Mary Lou (Melvin) Borucki, Thelma Smith, Wilma Hill, Shirley (Alex) Kocsis, and Rose (Paul) Lehmann; three step-siblings: Margaret (John) Pillarelli, Alice (Roland) Hoffman, and Alvin Schneider; and nine grandchildren. Friends may gather from 2:00-8:00pm, Friday, May 24,at Merkle Funeral Service, 9156 Summit, Erie (734) 848-5185 where the Rosary will be recited at 7:00pm. She will lie in state from 9:30am until the Mass of the Resurrection at 10:30am, Saturday, May 25, 2013 at St. Joseph Church, 2238 Manhattan with Father Fred Kalaj officiating. Procession will follow to the church cemetery for burial. Memorials for those who desire are suggested to St. Joseph Church. Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort, share a photo, make a donation, or send a floral arrangement by visiting www.merklefs.com; Online Tributes page.