Bonnie Carolyn Crotteau of Newport, Wash., passed away on Dec. 18, 2018, in Spokane, Wash., striving to recover from a stroke earlier that week. She was 85.

Bonnie was born July, 30, 1933, to Herman and Melvina Chappell in Tensed, Idaho. After graduating from Priest River High School in 1950, she attended Kinman Business College in Spokane. Moving to Alexandria, Virginia, on Dec. 22, 1951, Bonnie married Cyril (Sip) William Crotteau Jr. of Priest River, Idaho, who was then a platoon sergeant training engineer troops at nearby Ft. Belvoir. They celebrated their 66th wedding anniversary this past year.

In 1953, Bonnie made a loving home in North Idaho, first for her and Sip, and ultimately for their two sons, as they lived for 10 years in Priest River and Sandpoint, Idaho. The family moved to Newport in 1965. Throughout, Bonnie was a devoted partner to Sip, a caring mother, homemaker and very active in the community.

Bonnie enjoyed their home on the Pend Oreille River, entertaining family and friends, especially during the summer and holidays seasons. She loved to travel, joining Sip on trips across the U.S. and overseas.

Bonnie ably applied her bookkeeping skills in the family business in Newport, a Chevron Oil distributorship. In the 1990s, she served county citizens for two years at Rural Resources office in Newport.

Community and church activities were a major focus of her life outside the home. She was an energetic volunteer, compassionate and dedicated to a number of worthy causes. Bonnie was a leader in the Soroptimist Club and a member of Eastern Star in Newport. As a member of the American Cancer Society, she represented Pend Oreille County at several state organization meetings. Bonnie was active in the American Lutheran Church in Newport. She was committed to her family, faith, community and country.

Bonnie is survived by her husband, C.W. Sip Crotteau Jr. of Newport; sons Craig Crotteau and Brad Crotteau; grandson Michael Crotteau; granddaughter Jane Crotteau; and sister Bobbie Hollenbeck.

Those wishing to show their respect to Bonnie may do so at the Sherman-Campbell Funeral Home in Newport from noon to 6 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 4, 2019. A graveside service will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 5, at the Newport Cemetery, followed by a memorial service at 11 a.m. at the American Lutheran Church followed by a reception, also at the church. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Pend Oreille Historical Society in Bonnie’s name.

Sherman-Campbell Funeral and Cremation Services in Priest River is in charge of arrangements. Family and friends are invited to sign the online guest book at shermancampbell.com.