Mr. Charles F. "Chuck" Bonanza

Mr. Charles F. “Chuck” Bonanza, age 82, of New Hartford, followed his wife on her journey to their Eternal Home as he passed away unexpectedly several hours after Theresa, on Sunday, October 24, 2010. His passing occurred at the Kaiser Redwood City Hospital in California with the love and support of his family by his side. Born in Utica on May 17, 1928, Charles was the son of the late Joseph and Laura (Pflanz) Bonanza. Raised and educated locally, he attended Utica Free Academy. A veteran of the U.S. Army, he proudly served his country during the Korean Conflict. On September 11, 1954 he married the former Theresa Rastani who passed just hours before him. He trusted her implicitly in their relationship in family life and the goals and direction of their life together. He relied on Theresa’s strength and vitality. Chuck worked at Griffiss Air Force Base in the Water Treatment Department for many years, retiring in 1986. He also worked at his vocation as a licensed hairdresser. He was self-employed and thoroughly enjoyed the artistic and creative highlights that he achieved during his working career. Chuck was blessed with an outgoing personality and an adventuresome side. He loved the water, swimming, and boating – skills that he proudly taught his children. Some of his most memorable times with his family were spent fishing and camping, and they especially remember the summers at Sylvan Beach which was a haven for him. Many times he lamented that “the season was never long enough”. Chuck also had a green thumb and produced an abundant annual vegetable garden, and prolific outdoor plants and flowers. Not only was Chuck inventive and imaginative, he was resourceful, too! With his creative skills he could sew, mend, repair, create new items from discarded material, and with his eye for detail, he could “touch up” anything, giving it new life. Chuck and Theresa collectively pursued the hobby of gathering knick-knacks galore which adorned their home and were appreciated for their unique beauty. Another aspect of Chuck’s creative artistry was his agility in leading his wife on the dance floor with such style and grace. This special connection that they so much enjoyed was equally magical to watch. In all respects, he was a man of humble beginnings who had the ability to utilize his God-given skills to enable him to support his family and appreciate his all blessings. This gave him the greatest satisfaction in life. He was a communicant of St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish. Chuck is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Corrine M. and Paul W. Kronauge III of Redwood City, California. His daughter and son-in-law opened their home and hearts for her parents on October 5th of this year, to comfort and care for them at this time of their lives. Always cherished in Chuck’s heart were the memories of his two sons who passed before him, Steven J. Bonanza in 1979, and David A. Bonanza in 2007. He also leaves his grandchildren, Katerina Kronauge and Anika Kronauge, who were wonderful caregivers with great concern; and David Albright, Elaine Bonanza, and Matthew Albright; and several great-grandchildren. Survivors also include his sister, Janice Hawelka; his brothers and sisters-in-law, Donald A. “Don” Bonanza, James and Delores Bonanza, and Robert and Ida Bonanza; his nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and in-laws, Frances J. Bonanza, Annette Rastani, John Louis Rastani, and Thomas “Tommy” and Sally Rastani. He was also blessed with many wonderful friends, with special mention of his close friend, John DeNigro, and his kind neighbors, Sally and Don. He was predeceased by his brother, Joseph J. “Snooky” Bonanza, Jr; his sisters, Patricia Lavier, and Corrine M. Bonanza; and his in-laws, Olive "Lee" Bonanza, Anthony and Theresa Rastani, Guy and Cecilia Rastani, Lugo and Marie Rastani, Mary and John Francis Amrhein, Angeline “Angie” and Philip P. Polizzi, Louis E. Rastani, Infant Charles Rastani, and Edith Rastani. Endeared to Corrine’s heart is the family loyalty, awareness, and inspired connection of her husband Paul’s devotion to her parents. His love and care through this meaningful experience is such a testimony to the man he is. The family sincerely offers a special note of thanks to Corrine’s longtime and loyal friend, Karen Sprague, who watched over Theresa and Chuck through visits of concern and true friendship during these later years, always with a compassionate heart. Visitation for Charles and his wife Theresa, will be shared Friday (today) from 4:00-7:00 at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Expressions of sympathy in the form of donations may be made to the Mission Hospice of San Mateo, California; envelopes will be available at the funeral home or donations may be directed to 1900 O’Farrell St., Suite 200, San Mateo, CA 94403 or www.missionhospice.org. Their funeral service and Celebration of Life will commence on Saturday morning at 8:30 from the funeral home and at 9:30 at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish where their Mass of Christian Burial will be offered. Committal prayers and military honors for Chuck will be conferred graveside at Calvary Cemetery.

Mr. Charles F. "Chuck" Bonanza

May 17, 1928 - October 24, 2010