Bonnie Anderson
Bonnie Wozniak Anderson, a woman who truly did it her way, passed-away on January 28,2026, surrounded by her two sons, daughter-in-law and two grandchildren she adored—a family that loved her fiercely. Though she left us far too soon, she did so with the same sharp wit and independent spirit that defined her entire life.
Bonnie’s story began in Athens, where she was born on August 27, 1949, on a daily farm to Regina and George Wozniak. As the youngest of five children, Bonnie learned early how to hold her own. A proud graduate of Athens High School and a former Girl Scout, she eventually traded the Wisconsin plains for the rugged beauty of the West.
Alongside her husband, Vern Anderson, Bonnie moved to Boise, Idaho, to start a new chapter. It was there she raised her two sons, Wes and Donnie, and built a meaningful career as a dedicated junior high school teacher. While she taught many subjects, her true passion was science—sharing the wonders of the natural world and encouraging curiosity in generations of students.
In retirement, Bonnie and Vern realized a dream many only imagined. They moved to Harpster, in central Idaho, where they built their own home from the ground up. Nestled between glorious mountains and rolling hills, this “private oasis” became Bonnie’s sanctuary. She wasn’t just a resident of the land; she managed it, lived off it, and found her greatest peace within it. There, Bonnie enjoyed some of her favorite pastimes, including quilting with friends and tending to her many beloved house plants, which flourished under her attentive care. She also delighted in watching the abundant wildlife that visited her yard—from elk roaming through the hills, to newborn “Bambi” deer taking their first steps, and the many kinds of birds that filled her days with wonder.
Bonnie was known for being outgoing, adventurous and unapologetically herself. Throughout her life, she cared for so many, earning a reputation as the ultimate caregiver—always putting others first, offering comfort, strength and unwavering support to family and friends alike. Even when faced with the challenges of cancer, she refused to let her circumstances dampen her spirit. She kept her sense of humor until the very end, ensuring those around her felt her strength rather than her struggle.
Bonnie leaves behind a bucket-load of family to cherish her memory, including her sons: Wes Anderson and Donnie (Desi) Anderson; her grandchildren: Alex and Abby; her sister, Carol (Doug) Koffarnus; and numerous adoring nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Vern Anderson; her parents, Regina and George Wozniak; her sisters: Florence (Harvey) Klawinski and Lucille Love; and her brother, Glen (Susie) Wozniak.
Bonnie’s family encourages you to celebrate her by seeking out your own adventure or simply enjoying the outdoors.
