Richard "Dick" P. Bonin

Richard “Dick” P. Bonin, age 85, of Platteville, Wisconsin, died on Saturday, October 24, 2026, at his home, surrounded by his family.

Dick was born on August 17, 1941, in Lancaster, Wisconsin, to Paul and Janice (Pagel) Bonin. He graduated from Platteville High School in 1959. Growing up on the family farm along Stumptown Road, Dick developed the strong work ethic that guided him throughout his life. He remained proud of his farming roots and especially cherished his antique cars and tractors, including a tractor that had belonged to his father.

Dick proudly served in the United States Army with the 1st Infantry Division from 1964 to 1966, including service during the Vietnam War. His experiences in Vietnam had a profound and lasting impact on his life. Dick was especially proud of a recent Honor Flight to Washington, D.C., accompanied by his oldest son, Rich, a meaningful experience and a treasured memory they shared.

Following his military service, he worked in several occupations before becoming an independent truck driver and owner-operator, a profession he enjoyed for many years. He took great pride in his semi-truck and enjoyed sharing his love of trucking with his family. Never one to sit idle, Dick always had a project underway, whether remodeling the family home from top to bottom or renovating rental properties. He was hardworking and resourceful and took great pride in what he accomplished with his own two hands.

On June 8, 1968, Dick married Nora Magby, beginning a journey that spanned more than 58 years of marriage. Together, they raised four children and watched their family grow to include seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. They built a life centered on family, hard work, and service to others, opening their hearts and home to numerous foster children and friends who became family.

As a young husband and father, Dick enjoyed bowling and sharing that pastime with his family. He was a loyal supporter of the Green Bay Packers, Wisconsin Badgers, and, more recently, the Indiana Fever. He especially treasured his role as a grandfather and great-grandfather, taking pride in the accomplishments and activities of the younger generations. He was a familiar face around Platteville, especially at Ed’s Café, where he enjoyed early-morning coffee and conversations with friends.

Dick was deeply committed to the Platteville community. For more than 50 years, he was involved with Platteville Dairy Days, helping with preparations and serving as a parade announcer. He also served on the Platteville City Council and devoted considerable time to veterans’ causes through the Vietnam Memorial Committee, Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), and the American Legion. He was a member of the United Methodist Church and remained active in community service throughout his life.

Dick is survived by his wife, Nora; his children, Rich (Jeanne) Bonin of Platteville, Amy (Brian) Loeffelholz of Platteville, Paul Bonin of Platteville, and Ann (Mike) Finley of Waunakee; Mike (Jennie) Hocker and their children, Sydney, Averie, and Kinsey, who became cherished members of the Bonin family; his grandchildren, Nick (Kenna), Cassandra (Tyler), Makayla (Josh), Madison (Jaritt), Michael, Katherine, and Kameron; and his great-grandchildren, Kenzington, Pierce, Banks, and Nova.

He is also survived by his son, Darren (Lynn) Joniaux of Kiel, WI, with whom he reconnected later in life, a reunion that brought Dick happiness and held special meaning for him; Darren’s children, Brad (Samantha), Trevor (Ashley), and Samantha (Jordan); Darren’s grandchildren, Myles, Lincoln, Pierce, Jace, and Chloe; and another grandchild expected in January.

He is further survived by his brother, Larry (Lois) Bonin; his sister, Carol Caldwell; his brothers- and sisters-in-law, Teresa (Dave) Welbes, John (Sally) Magby, Sandy (Ernie) Sarbacker, Jim (Marianne Krause) Magby, Mike (Belinda) Magby, Mike Hubbard, and Jo Gruenwald, a sister-in-law in love and friendship.

Dick was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers-and sisters-in-law, Diane Hubbard, Roger (Sue DeMaio) Magby, Dennis Caldwell, Kathy Magby, and Ron Gruenwald, a brother-in-law in love and friendship.

Dick was also preceded in death by his beloved canine companion, Tootsie. Dick and Tootsie will be laid to rest together, side by side, just as they spent their days.

The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers who became part of Dick’s daily life, providing the care, companionship, and support that allowed him to remain at home. The family is also deeply grateful to the staff at the William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital (Unit 3B) in Madison for their exceptional care and dedication, and to Agrace Hospice Care for the comfort, guidance, and compassionate support they provided during Dick’s final days.

Funeral services for Dick will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, October 30, 2026, at the United Methodist Church, 1065 Lancaster Street, Platteville, Wisconsin. Reverend Tammy Clausen will officiate.  Burial will be at Blockhouse Cemetery, followed by a luncheon in the church fellowship hall.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 29, 2026, at Melby Funeral Home, 1245 Water Street, Platteville, and again from 10:00 to 10:45 a.m. on Friday at the church prior to the service. Condolences may be expressed online at www.melbyfh.com.