Bonnie Shinault, Sr.

Bonnie passed away while in hospice at home in Aurora, Colorado, with his wife by his side. Bonnie was born in Oklahoma and lived his childhood years in Stillwater, Oklahoma. He was preceded in death by his parents Clarence and Pearlie Shinault, son Michael, granddaughter Salena, and all of his siblings. He is survived by his devoted wife Mary, sons Lonnie (Robin), Bonnie Jr. (Valerie), Anthony and Daryl, as well as his grandchildren Brianna (Lamar), Lonnie (Stephanie), Juanita, Ebony, Brian, numerous great grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.

Bonnie graduated from Washington High School in Stillwater, Oklahoma, and attended Langston College/University in Langston, Oklahoma. Upon leaving college, he entered the United States Army, and served a tour of duty in Japan as the Korean War was ending.

Bonnie was employed as a bus driver for RTD for 25 years and genuinely enjoyed his job and passengers. Last year he attained his 50-year Gold Membership status with RTD, earned by working as a bus driver for RTD for 25 years and maintaining his union membership for the following 25 years during his retirement.

Bonnie was an avid sports fan. He genuinely loved all sports. During his school years, he became an accomplished diver, swimmer, and football player, the latter of which was continued into his years in the service. He loved to travel and journeyed to all continents except Antarctica. Fishing was another hobby Bonnie especially enjoyed. He was a wicked “Bones” (aka dominos) player and could also be found playing solitaire, where the competition was less intense. But his “Claim to Fame” was his barbecue finesse.  In the recent past a few of his barbecue buddies offered to fire up the grill in a cookoff.  If not for Covid, this would have happened.

Unbeknownst to most, when Bonnie got home from his daily bus route, he would start dinner preparations and settle in to read the newspaper “cover to cover.” But probably most important to him was his ritual of choosing a few Bible verses to study and reflect upon.

A memorial service will be held in Stillwater, Oklahoma, October 21, 2022, with a Colorado service, date to be determined.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the charity of your choice.