Bonita "Bonnie" Gessner

Bonita “Bonnie” M. Gessner, age 84 of Ottawa, MN passed away at her home on Sunday, October 11, 2026. A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, Oct.15, 2026 at Kolden Funeral Home in Le Sueur, from 11 A.M. – 1 P.M., with a closing Prayer Service at 1 P.M. Interment will be at a later date in Ottawa Cemetery.

Bonnie was born on February 25, 1942 to Frank and Lorraine (Kotasek) Schwartz in Ottawa Township, MN. She attended her early education years in Ottawa, and attended Le Sueur High School. On October 24, 1959, Bonnie married Wilfred “Bill” Gessner at St. Anne’s Catholic Church in Le Sueur and together they raised their sons, David and Danny.

She dedicated 30 years of hard work to International Multifoods as a supervisor before retiring in 1995. Bonnie was a woman who enjoyed the simple pleasures in life. Whether she was trying her luck at bingo, attending local festivals, watching the birds, or tending to her flower garden, she always found ways to keep herself busy. Above all else, Bonnie cherished her family and the time they spent together.

Those who knew Bonnie would lovingly describe her as “the sweetest spitfire you’d ever meet.” She had a heart of gold, a sharp wit, and just enough sass to keep everyone on their toes. She was never one to sugarcoat her thoughts, and if she had something to say, you were going to hear it. She was quick with a comeback, loved giving those around her a hard time, and always managed to keep things interesting. But behind that feisty personality was a woman with an incredibly kind heart and a deep love for her family. Her playful teasing, unforgettable remarks, and one-of-a-kind personality were all part of what made Bonnie so special and those who loved her wouldn't have had her any other way.

Bonnie is survived by her children, David and Danny (Renee) Gessner of Le Sueur; grandchildren, Jessica (Tom) Cradick, Cat (Benjamin Burkman) Gessner, Wilfred “Billy” (Ali) Gessner, and Randy (Special Friend, Kylee) Gessner; 7 great-grandchildren; sister, Sue (Beamer) Schlarbaum of Le Sueur; as well as in-laws and many nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by her parents; infant brother, Michael; husband, “Bill” in 1992; grandson, Garret; and brothers, Joseph and Daniel Schwartz.