Bonnie Crystal Crone's Obituary
Bonnie Crystal Crone, 86 of Chanute, Kansas, passed away on Wednesday, December 24, 2025, at Neosho Memorial Regional Medical Center.
Bonnie was welcomed into this world on July 20, 1939 in Chanute, Kansas, to Edgar and Mabel (Trent) Kustanborter. Bonnie graduated from Chanute High School and then married Bill Gericke, the two later divorced. Bonnie worked at the City Landfill and Walmart for several years, but her favorite job was being a mom. She was fortunate to be able to stay home and care for her family and take care of the home.
Bonnie was a member of the Otterbein Community Church of Chanute. With her caring nature, she was able to volunteer for many church events. She was very active in the community, visiting numerous nursing homes, just go in and visit with the residents. During her free time, Bonnie loved to go on bus trips to visit places like Branson and attend the shows. Most of all, Bonnie loved the time she got to spend with her family, especially her 6 grandchildren; two of whom she lovingly helped raise, Danielle and Zack Gericke.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Edgar and Mabel Kustanborter, her sons, Daniel Ray Gericke, Gary Frank Gericke, John Arthur Gericke, daughter Debra Jo Gericke, and her stepmother, Leola Felkins Kustanborter.
Her memory will carry on with her sons, Ronald Gericke and wife Freda, Timothy Gericke and partner, Sara Cooper, 6 grandchildren, 7 great grandchildren, daughter-in-law Cynthia Gericke, sister, Mary Jane Shaw, and nephew, John Shaw. Visitation will be held at Countryside Funeral Home on January 15, 2026, with the family greeting friends from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm. A Celebration of Bonnie’s Life will be held at Otterbein Community Church of Chanute on Friday, January 16, 2026 at 1:00 pm. The family of Bonnie has entrusted services to Countryside Funeral Home.
The family would like to thank the hospital staff and Dr. Guernsey for taking such wonderful care of our mother. Additionally, we would like to thank Marlene Marts, Cindy Lane, and Pat McClanahan for sitting with our mother when we were not able to. Memorials are suggested to Cherry Street Youth Center or add someone to your prayer list.
What’s your fondest memory of Bonnie?
What’s a lesson you learned from Bonnie?
Share a story where Bonnie's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Bonnie you’ll never forget.
How did Bonnie make you smile?