Terra Lynn Bonanza

UTICA - Terra Lynn Bonanza, age 40, passed away after complications of COVID-19 on Thursday, April 22, 2021 and is now at peace. At the time of her passing, those she loved most were in her heart and her dad was by her side. Born in New Hartford on October 25, 1980, Terra Lynn was the daughter of Joseph J. Bonanza and Debra (Marashian) Bonanza. She attended JFK Middle School and was a graduate of T.R. Proctor High School/Class of 1998. She furthered her education and earned her credentials as a New York State Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) and was employed at St. Elizabeth Hospital. Terra Lynn had a heart of gold and a free spirit. She loved life, and becoming a nurse and being a mom were her greatest accomplishments. Spending time with family was important to her; she loved her dad, and she shared a special bond with her brother Ant. They respected one another and he had her back to the end, and he will always continue to love her and carry her memory in his heart. She enjoyed watching Lifetime Movies and visiting amusement parks. Her dogs were her constant companions, especially “Blue”, a Blue-Nosed Pitbull, who was an ace of a dog. She was an accomplished cook, her forte being Italian foods, and during the holidays, she captured the delicacy of making Chocolate Rolls which were everyone’s favorite. As Terra Lynn would say, “Birthdays were the worst. Now we drink champagne when we are thirsty”. Although Terra Lynn was a girly girl and loved salon treatments and stylish jewelry, she was also a “tuff cookie”. She believed in the Lord and all the saints, and she depended on Him for strength. Terra Lynn climbed a lot of mountains, and she made it through. Her journey came to closure with peace. Terra Lynn is survived by her dad, Joe Bonanza, her mom, Debbie; paternal grandmother, Frances (Synacek) Bonanza; the blessing of five children, Daniella, Savanna, Anthony, Gianna, and Gino; and her brother, Anthony “Tone” Bonanza and Victoria. She also leaves her nephews, Giovanni, Jeremiah, Gionni, and Anthony Jr.; cousins, especially Jennifer Garramone; and her aunts, uncles, and friends. She was predeceased by her paternal grandfather, Joseph J. “Snooky” Bonanza, Jr.; and her special friend, Teddy Talerico. The family is grateful to Dr. Jeanty, her compassionate physician, and the special nurses and technicians of the MVHS at St. Luke’s Healthcare ICU and IMCU who cared for Terra during the 5 weeks that she battled and labored against COVID-19. Services for Terra Lynn will be held at the convenience of her family. During this time of social distancing that we are all experiencing, please take a moment to connect with Terra Lynn’s family through the “Memories” section of her obituary. Our prayers go out to all as a sign of our continued support.

Terra Lynn Bonanza

October 25, 1980 - April 22, 2021