Obituary of Kenneth P. Bonestele

Kenneth Bonestele, 90, of North Bellmore, passed peacefully early Wednesday, January 30th, 2019, surrounded by family. Ken was born on June 28, 1928 in his family home in North Bellmore to Nicholas and Marion (O'Brien) Bonestele.  He was a graduate of Mepham High School, and went on to serve his country as part of the U.S. Army in Germany during the Korean war. He returned home and became a machinist for Grumman Aerospace where he worked for 37 years. One of his proudest accomplishments while working was helping to build the Lunar Lander. On June 25, 1955, Ken married the love of his life, Patricia O'Brien, and they were together for over 60 years until the time of his passing. They had four children together and adopted one. Ken spent many summers sitting in the garage, listening to music, and enjoying cold beer with anyone and everyone in the neighborhood. He formed close friendships with his neighbors, and was always willing to lend a hand. He enjoyed tending to his gardens throughout the year, always sharing his love for nature with those around him. He was always smiling and making jokes; his witty sense of humor was something that even in the end he never lost. His facial expression could tell a story without a single word. Those close to him were blessed to be able to share in his zest for life and his carefree attitude. He is survived by his wife Patricia, his children Nick, Elaine, Kevin, Karen and Dawn, and his nine grandchildren, among several nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at Bartholomew Funeral Home 302 Bedford Ave., Bellmore NY, 11710 on Thursday January 31st, and Friday February 1st. The service will be held at the evening wake on Friday February 1st at the Funeral home with burial to follow on Saturday, February 2nd, at Pinelawn Cemetery.

The family would like to extend a special thanks to St. Francis Hospital, especially Michelle and the staff on 1 East, along with those at Good Shepherd Hospice for their unwavering dedication and compassion, not only to Ken but to his loved ones during this difficult time.