Bonnie Sue Gose

A blessing to everyone who knew and loved her, Bonnie Gose added much to the lives of others. With ways all her own, she raised her family and worked hard her whole life through all while enjoying life fully and completely at every opportunity. Bonnie's family was her greatest joy, and in them she found her delight. A joy to know and love, Bonnie's kind and loving legacy lives on through the hearts of those she leaves behind. Bonnie's story began at a time when the nation continued to struggle through the lasting effects of the Great Depression, yet America forged on with lasting hope as President Teddy Roosevelt was re-elected to his second term. Ginger Rogers and Fred Astaire danced their way into the hearts of many, and readers were fascinated with the newly published novel, Gone with the Wind. Yet for Leonard and Grace (Williams) Davis, nothing compared to the welcome birth of their little girl, Bonnie Sue on January 13, 1936. Born in Jonesboro, Arkansas, Bonnie's parents were hard working farmers and also picked cotton to support their growing family. As an infant, she moved about with her mother in a cotton sack much like the baby harnesses of today. Raised in a bustling household, Bonnie was the third of eventually six children which came to include Bill, Tom, Naomi, Peggy, and Mike. Times were especially hard for Bonnie's large family. As a child she experienced much although as a family they moved often between the states of Arkansas and Indiana. Bonnie was a caregiver at heart. During her youth she served as a second mother to her siblings and as they grew up due to their vast age difference. She came to know her way around the kitchen and could maintain a busy household. These traits came in handy when Bonnie met the young man who would forever hold her heart, Dale Gose. Bonnie met Dale in the 1950s while she was working at a local restaurant. He had recently been discharged from the service, and since their parents knew each other, they always felt they played a vital role in the couple's coming together. Bonnie and Dale soon began a dating relationship and when Bonnie was 18 and they had fallen deeply in love they were happily married on February 20, 1954. To their union they soon began a family to call their own with the birth of Rick. Sandy was followed by Bob, and Sarah completed their family. Cooking was a big part of Bonnie's life and she would not have wanted it any other way! She was a wonderful cook and no one ever turned down her delicious fried chicken, goulash, corn bread made in a skillet, or her corn bread dressing. Bonnie could cook up anything from the south and she always made enough for everyone she might find at her table. Friday's when Bonnie worked was always a special time for the kids because she'd treat them with a pop and the only one they were allowed for the week. Bonnie never ceased in caring for others. She liked going to visit her mom when she was getting on in years and cherished those times they spent together. She enjoyed taking photos, especially of her family. Time spent tending her garden, especially her beautiful roses always brought a smile to Bonnie's heart. She absolutely loved Elvis, dancing and a true Arkansas girl, she even loved to Yodel! Bonnie's joy was found in caring for those around her. She loved her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and considered herself abundantly blessed. She treasured raising her kids as well as those of others a time or two. She had the sweetest, most caring heart, and she was beautiful from the inside out. Nurturing was in Bonnie's nature whether it was through her unconditional love, making others feel welcome to share a meal or offering a caring hug or shoulder to lean on, Bonnie could always be counted on through a grace all her own. For these things and so much more, Bonnie will be deeply missed and fondly remembered. Bonnie Sue Gose, of East Leroy passed away Monday, August 19, 2019 at the age of 83. Bonnie is survived by her three children: Rick (Vonda) Gose of Luther, Sandy (Ray) Smith of East Leroy, and Bob (Carol) Gose of Vicksburg; 13 grandchildren and numerous great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her siblings: Peggy (Charles) Sams of Marcellus and Mike (Linda) Davis of IN. Bonnie is preceded in death by her husband, Dale; daughter, Sarah Blankenship; siblings: Bill Davis, Tom Davis, Noami McGill and twin siblings that passed at birth. A funeral service will be held Thursday, August 22, 2019, 11:00 AM at the McCowen & Secord Funeral Home, Rupert-Durham Chapel, 409 S. Main, Vicksburg, MI 49097 (269-649-1697). The family will receive friends at the funeral home one hour prior to the service beginning at 10:00 AM. She will be buried at Baird Cemetery. The family requests that you please dress casual for the service. Please visit Bonnie's webpage at www.mccowensecord.com where you can sign her guestbook and share a memory. Those who wish may make contributions to Alzheimer's Research.