Bonnie Ann Hope Rask

Bonnie Ann Hope Jangala Rask was the embodiment of joy — an absolute light beam of a woman who sang, danced, and loved her way through every season of life.

She was born July 8, 1931, in Deerwood, Minn., to William Jangala and Olga Jacobson. From a young age, Bonnie had a sharp and inquisitive mind. She always loved reading and discussing books, playing games (she was unusually lucky — always a winner!), and exploring new places. Her family were among the thousands who migrated to find work in the Portland shipyards during World War II, and it was there in Oregon that Bonnie met her husband, Leroy Michael Rask, in 1953. She would stop by to visit Lee at his family’s store, and if he wasn’t around, his father would tell him, “Bonnie with the beautiful smile came to see you today.”

Bonnie and Lee were married in 1953 and built a remarkable life together over the course of 67 years. They raised six incredible children who Bonnie called the deepest and most profound loves of her life. She was endlessly proud of the family they created, which grew to include their children’s spouses, 10 grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren. Bonnie was the definition of a supportive mother and grandmother, filling her family members’ lives with warmth, encouragement, and unconditional love. Whether at a sporting event, a school play, or a graduation, Bonnie was always there to cheer them on in anything they undertook.

A lifelong learner and author of the phrase “A+++,” Bonnie went back to school to become a Ward Secretary and later a Floral Designer, which led her to open her own business: Bonnie’s Floral. She found community and purpose in St. Sharbel Church, and donated her time and talents to creating elaborate floral arrangements for their holiday Masses, along with participating in the Bake Sale and Annual Lebanese Dinner.

In addition to being a gifted creator, Bonnie was an intrepid adventurer who loved exploring the world with her family. She regularly visited the Oregon Coast and Palm Springs, as well as taking trips to destinations like Cuba, Finland, Ireland, Italy, England, and Guatemala. At the age of 90, she bravely traveled to Mexico for her final Christmas and enjoyed every blessed moment, learning she loved Mexican food — especially guacamole.

Bonnie set an amazing example of never being idle. She was always self-motivated and up for her next adventure. And as she embarks upon whatever adventure may come after this lifetime, she leaves it to all of us who loved her to “keep the candle burning” in her honor.