Bonita M. Stopher, 94

Bonita M. Stopher, 94 years, of Harlan, Indiana passed away Saturday, September 12, 2020 at Parkview Regional Medical Center, Fort Wayne, Indiana. Bonita was born November 17, 1925 in Antwerp, Ohio the daughter of the late Walter and Florence (Gustin) Thompson. She was a 1944 graduate of Harlan High School. On September 16, 1944, she was united in marriage to her high school sweetheart, Walter J. Stopher, and he preceded her in death on August 5, 2016. Bonita retired from Harlan Elementary School as the cafeteria manager in 1977. She was a member of Harlan United Methodist Church where she was a member of the Women’s Society. Bonita and her husband were members of an Airstream Club for many years. She enjoyed flower gardening, square dancing, cooking and was well known for her excellent pies.

Bonita is survived by two daughters, Hedy Phillips of Fort Wayne, Indiana, Rhonda Knoblauch of Woodburn, Indiana; two sons, Bruce (Karen) Stopher of Harlan, Indiana, Gary Stopher of Woodburn, Indiana; 10 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren, three great great- grandchildren and a sister, Pauline Nusbaum. She is preceded in death by five brothers, Charles Thompson, Robert Thompson, Max Thompson, Russell Thompson, Jim Thompson and a sister, Betty Richmond.

A public graveside service will be held for Bonita on Thursday, September 17, 2020 at 11:00 a.m. in Scipio Cemetery, Harlan, Indiana with Pastor Greg Zern officiating. Due to the ongoing pandemic, masks and social distancing are required. Arrangements are under the care of Oberlin-Turnbull Funeral Home, Hicksville Chapel.

Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider contributions to the Harlan United Methodist Church, 16434 State Route 37, Harlan, Indiana 46743.

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