Raymond Bonelli

Raymond Ralph Bonelli Jr, age 70, passed away peacefully and in loving hands on Sunday, February 21, 2021 at HopeWest Hospice in Grand Junction, CO due to complications from cancer.

He was born December 12, 1950 in Santa Monica, CA to Raymond and Ottillie Bonelli. He graduated from Loara High School in 1969, and later studied business management at The University of La Verne. Ray moved to Colorado in 1993 with his family and was an active member of the Catholic Church. He held many occupations, predominantly in sales management, auto sales, and most recently as a drivers education instructor. He gave back to the community through his numerous roles coaching youth sports and passing on his knowledge of some of life’s greatest values such as teamwork, patience, and perseverance. One of his biggest passions in life was performing music. He celebrated this love by being in many music groups throughout his life as well as being lead vocals and rhythm guitar in the local music group Remember When. He also loved attending live shows, singing karaoke whenever he had the chance, and enjoying a cold margarita or a Bahama Mama. Ray followed his passions throughout life and was the epitome of the word “Dad” with his cheesy jokes, clever wit, and his unmatched pride when it came to raising his two daughters. He is preceded in death by both of his parents and his brother, Rick. He is survived by his daughters Gina (David) Eberhart, and Angela (Matt) Schmedeman, five grandchildren, as well as his brother Rob and many nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, his daughters have requested donations be made in his name to HopeWest Hospice, for whom we are forever grateful to for providing care and support during this time.

We know you’re singing in the Angel’s Choir. Love you Dad.