Donald William Bonesteel, 79, of Valdese, passed away on Friday, January 5, 2024 at UNC Blue Ridge, following a period of declining health.
Donald was born July 26, 1944 in New York to the late William Bonesteel and Myrtle Barker Bonesteel. Donald loved riding motorcycles, attending Revolutionary War reenactments, and being in his wood shop working. In his younger years, he was a volunteer fire fighter. Donald was also a Free Mason belonging to the Cortland Lodge in Peekskill, NY.
In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his son, Andrew Bonesteel and wife Ruth Bonesteel.
He is survived by his son, David Bonesteel and wife Alisa; grandchildren, Kayla Bonesteel, Rhianna Bonesteel, and Chelsea Bishop; sisters, Lynn Sperano and husband John, and Wendy Thatcher and husband Wayne; daughter-in-law, Shari Bonesteel; and his faithful pup Ziggy.
A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, January 13, 2024 from 3:00 PM to 4:30 PM at Heritage Funeral Service in Valdese.
Memorials may be made to the Humane Society at Burke County at www.burkecountyfriends4animals.org
Heritage Funeral Service and Crematory in Valdese is assisting the family.
Donny was a very important part of my life. He was always just a phone call away if you needed help. He had the biggest heart of anyone I ever knew. I will miss him until we meet again. Rest in Piece Donny, I will always love you.
A long time ago, when Don, Ruthie, Andrew and David lived in Canandaigua New York, they and my wife Carol and I, were all members of the Revolutionary War reenacted unit Col. Wm. Thompson’s Rifle Battalion, Capt. Wm. Hendrick’s Company of the national Brigade of the American Revolution. My goodness, we all had such good times, and the fun we had !! Although it is so very long ago, I remember Don as though it was yesterday. Always happy and always chuckling about some crack he or I had made. Don was always ready to help out where needed. Fond memories of Don keep flooding back through the years. We were devastated at the passing of Ruthie. She was greatly loved by Carol and I. After Don and “the boys” moved south we lost contact. It was hard when we heard Andrew passed. I have a hard time expressing how sorry Carol and I feel at the passing of Don. He was a wonderful person. I’m sure missed by the extended family.
To David — Be strong and know how much Carol and I thought of not only Don but your entire family. I am proud to say that Don was my friend and I am a better person because of that. Ernie Tschanz
My brother was my protector when we were growing up. He was so kind and well liked by everyone. In high school he was inducted into the key club because of his kindness and willing to assist anyone in need. At home he actually would do my chores sometimes so I could go be with my friends. He and his wife, Ruth who predeceased him, raised two amazing boys who were very much like him. We are all going to miss him and will continue to enjoy our memories of our years together. Till we meet again, my brother, love you.