Bonnie Jean Bartlett, 81, of Toledo, passed away peacefully November 16, 2021, in her home with her love of many years by her side. She was born on July 28, 1940 to Allen and Barbara (Koch) Bartlett. In addition to her parents and step-father, Ray Bohnert, she was preceded in death by her brother, Allen Bartlett; and her sweet Daisy dog, and mischievous cats, Puff and Marvin.

Bonnie graduated from Libbey High School in 1958, attended the University of Toledo, Ohio University, Bowling Green State University, and graduated from Saint Luke’s School of Radiologic Technology. She later returned to the University of Toledo (UT) to study Physical Education (PE) and graduated in 1971, at which time she began teaching PE and Health (k-12) in the Rossford School District.

Having thoroughly enjoyed teaching elementary school grades, she also loved coaching and would develop the Rossford High School Girls Softball program over decades to come. Lovingly known in its infant years as the “Rag-a-Muffins,” Coach Bartlett’s Bulldogs ensued many fundraisers to outfit them at a time when resources for girls’ sports and athletic advancement fell desperately short, despite being champions. Bonnie went on to coach and play recreational women’s softball for many years, mentoring and encouraging girls and women to pursue athletic endeavors for scholarship, skill development, and the fun of it, if for nothing else.

An avid bowler and golfer, she played many rounds with friends and family over decades past; and was known to enjoy the 19th hole with the best of them. Fun-loving yet private, Bonnie was the coach and confidant we all wanted in sport and in life. She was a collector of all things she adored, not the least of which were her friends and loved ones.

Left to cherish Bonnie’s memory is her beloved of many years, Nancy; Nancy’s daughter and Bonnie’s “Twink”, Dawn (Erin); sister-in-law, Sue; nephews, David (Tamara), Mark (Shelly), and their children; and many cousins, dear friends and neighbors.

The family will receive guests on Tuesday, November 30, 2021 from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. at Newcomer Funeral Home – Northwest Chapel, 4150 W. Laskey Rd., Toledo (419-473-0300) with Funeral Services beginning at 12:00 p.m. in the funeral home. Interment will follow in Toledo Memorial Park.

Those wishing to make memorial contributions are asked to consider Hospice of Northwest Ohio or Toledo Humane Society.

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