Wayne Edward Bonner

Wayne E. Bonner
Wayne Edward Bonner, 74, of Akron, OH, went home to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Wednesday, October 26, 2011 after a courageous battle with cancer. He was born September 16, 1937, in Dry Fork, WV. He moved to Akron in 1957 and married the love of his life in 1960. Wayne was owner and operator of Bonner's Body Shop in Akron for 33 years. He retired in 2003. Wayne was a member of Chapel of Prayer Baptist Church for the past 39 years where he at times served as Deacon and was involved in the music ministry. For the past eight years, Wayne and Mona have spent their winters in Florida. It was there he fulfilled his dream of singing and playing guitar and became quite famous for his rendition of "Long Black Train". Wayne left a lasting impression on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. He was devoted first to Christ and then to his family. He was a great husband, father, grandfather and friend. Wayne was preceded in death by his parents, Gordon and Lectie Bonner of Canaan Valley, WV. He leaves behind his loving wife of 52 years, Mona R. Day-Bonner; three daughters, Pam Grimmett of Bolivar, Cindy (Mark) Klockenga of North Benton, and Lisa (Mark) Gaston of Wadsworth; grandchildren, PFC Ryan Grimmett of Texas, Cara Grimmett, Officer Cadet William Grimmett, Katrina and Karl Klockenga, Courtney Gaston of Chicago, and Craig and Caylee Gaston; brother, Dwight (Cecelia) Bonner of Blue Rock, OH; sister, Leora (David) Moon of Oakland, MD; and many cherished friends. Calling hours will be held Sunday, October 30, from 2 to 6 pm at Newcomer Funeral Home, 131 N. Canton Rd., Akron, where a service will be held Monday, October 31, at 11 am with Pastor Sherman Bailey officiating. Wayne's burial is to follow at Hillside Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, the family request donations may be made to Chapel of Prayer Building Fund, 1811 Brittain Rd, Akron, OH 44310.