Bonnie Lee Swartz passed away peacefully on June 14, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family.
Born on August 13, 1948, in Kingsville, Ontario, Bonnie later moved to Chatham, Ontario with her parents, the late Robert Moore and Dorothy Moore (née Hall), and her brothers.
On June 15, 1968, she married Robert “Bob” Swartz, beginning a loving partnership that would span more than fifty years until Bob’s passing on October 29, 2018.
Bonnie is lovingly remembered by her brothers, Tom Moore (Kathy) and Rick Moore (Kathy); her son, Michael Swartz (Kelly), and their son, Tristan, and daughters Piper, and Kennedy; and her daughter, Stephanie, and her sons, Travis and Colton.
Bonnie worked at SRC and formed many lasting friendships throughout her life. She loved spending time with family and friends and was happiest when visiting, sharing stories, keeping up with the latest news, and staying connected with those she cared about.
A gifted artist, Bonnie expressed her creativity through drawing, painting, tole painting, calligraphy, knitting, crocheting, and countless other crafts. There seemed to be no artistic medium she could not master. Many in the Chatham area may remember Bonnie’s Little Craft Shack, the small business she and Bob built together as a hobby. Bob crafted the wooden pieces while Bonnie brought them to life with her artistic talent, selling their creations at craft shows and community events.
Nothing brought Bonnie greater joy than her grandchildren. She delighted in spending time with Tristan, Piper, Kennedy, Travis, and Colton and took special pride in sharing her creativity with them. Through countless hours of crafting, painting, knitting, and crocheting together, she passed along not only artistic skills but also patience, encouragement, and a love of creating something with one’s own hands.
Bonnie will be remembered for her warm sense of humour, her artistic gifts, her devotion to family and friends, and her ability to make people feel welcome. Her creativity lives on in the many works she created and in the family members she inspired to create alongside her.
In keeping with Bonnie’s wishes, cremation will take place. Visitation details will be announced by the family. A private family gathering will be held at a later date.
She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew her.
