Bonita Marie (Sengbusch) Klinzing

Bonita Marie (Sengbusch) Klinzing, age 96, passed away unexpectedly at home on Wednesday, February 18, 2026. Born on July 24, 1929, in Denmark, Wisconsin, Bonita was the beloved daughter of Hugo and Esther (Bruegge) Sengbusch. She graduated as Valedictorian of the Denmark High School Class of 1947, a reflection of the intelligence, determination, and work ethic that would define her life. As a young woman, Bonita worked as a stenographer for a company providing supplies for World War II soldiers, later went on to work at Denmark State Bank. She also faithfully served as church secretary for Reverend Solomon Cramer, living out her deep-rooted faith through both word and action. On November 26, 1954, she married the love of her life, Loren Klinzing. Together, they made their home on the farm in Ash Creek, Richland County, where she embraced the role of devoted farm wife and built a life centered on faith, family, and community. Bonita was an active and cherished member of the Ash Creek United Methodist Church. She delighted many by telling jokes at the annual Mother & Child banquet and was known for providing countless baked goods for the annual Lord’s Acre sale. Her generosity and warm spirit were woven into the fabric of her church and community. A talented seamstress, Bonita sewed custom drapes for both businesses and residences. She later worked at Schmitt Woodland Hills, retiring at the remarkable age of 81. She remained active throughout her life, enjoying water aerobics and later participating in Silver Sneakers at the Symons Recreation Center — with Monday’s class unknowingly being her final one. Bonita was known far and wide for her delicious baked goods. The aroma that greeted you upon entering her home was unforgettable — a scent of love, comfort, and hospitality. She hosted countless family meals and established treasured family traditions, including attending the Easter Sunrise Service followed by Easter at the Farm, as well as attending the Christmas Eve Candlelight Service followed by Christmas Eve at the Farm. She was her grandchildren’s “greatest fan,” faithfully attending concerts and sporting events, cheering enthusiastically, and keeping track of points scored. This loving tradition continued with her great-grandchildren. She cherished playing cards, family game nights, and family vacations, and was always ready to lend a helping hand. Bonita also had a gift of calligraphy, her handwriting was elegant and unmistakable, and she poured thoughtful care into every birthday card, holiday greeting, anniversary note, and word of encouragement she sent. In a world of hurried messages, she took the time to write beautifully and personally — each one filled with heartfelt sentiments, faith, and love. Extremely generous, loving, caring, and comforting, Bonnie was the matriarch, pillar, and rock of her family. Known affectionately by many names — Bonita, Bonnie, Bunny, Mom, Grandma, GiGi, Aunt Bonnie, and Dear Friend — she will be deeply missed by all who knew her. She is lovingly remembered by her children: James (Sara) Klinzing and Debra Klinzing (Daniel Sommer); her grandchildren: Jimmy Klinzing, Brittany (Adam) Niemeyer, and Celia (Zach) Zeman; and her treasured great-grandchildren: Tessa and Tucker Niemeyer; Peyton and Paxton Zeman; and Chloe Klinzing. She is also survived by her closest friend, Doris Schmidt; nieces and nephews: Jane Klinzing; Mary (Bruce) McKay; David (Tammy) Klinzing; Wayne (Mary Van De Hay) Sengbusch; Wendy (Don Mielke) Yingling; Scott (Kathy Bragg) Sengbusch; LeRoy Johnson; Keith (Gail) Sengbusch; Bruce (Teri) Sengbusch; Cyndi Oliver; and Debi Lutzke; along with her beloved Ash Creek Church Family, Schmitt Woodland Hills Family, and Symons Rec. Silver Sneakers Family. She was preceded in death by her parents, Hugo and Esther Sengbusch; her beloved husband, Loren Klinzing; her brothers, Kenwood, Ralph, Roy, and Norman Sengbusch; her brothers-in-law, Everette Klinzing and Reverend Solomon Cramer; her sisters-in-law, Irene Cramer, Helen Klinzing, Marcella Sengbusch, and Shirley Sengbusch; her nephews, Norman Sengbusch Jr., Eugene Sengbusch, Paul Klinzing, and Brian Sengbusch; and her niece, Cheryl Johnson. Bonita’s legacy of faith, generosity, humor, and unwavering love will continue through the many lives she touched. Her presence was a blessing; her memory will forever be a treasure. A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 28, 2026, at Ash Creek United Methodist Church, County Highway O, rural Richland Center. Guests are welcome to arrive beginning at 10:00 a.m. The family will share readings and prayers in honor of Bonnie’s life. Fellowship and light refreshments will follow the service. The Clary Memorial Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. .

Bonita Marie (Sengbusch) Klinzing

July 24, 1929 - February 18, 2026