Some people are happiest with their feet on the ground. John Bonner was happiest with his eyes on the horizon, his hands on the controls, and his heart in the sky.

John Bonner III

September 1, 1951 – July 12, 2026

John Bonner III, 74, of Ocala, Florida, passed away peacefully on July 12, 2026.

Born in Memphis, Tennessee, on September 1, 1951, John lived a life guided by faith, defined by hard work, enriched by unwavering love for his family, and inspired by an enduring passion for aviation.

For more than 40 years, John dedicated his career as an electrician with Tri-City Electric, earning the respect of his coworkers through his strong work ethic, reliability, and willingness to help others. After retiring, he embraced the opportunity to spend more time doing what he loved most—flying, exploring the mountains, and making memories with family and friends.

John's greatest passion was aviation. As a private pilot, the cockpit of his beloved red Cessna 150 was where he felt most at home. Flying wasn't simply a hobby—it was part of who he was. Whether taking to the skies for a local flight or heading north to the mountains of Georgia, John found joy in every journey. Some of his happiest days were spent flying into the North Georgia mountains to hike sections of the Appalachian Trail, combining his love of flight with his appreciation for the beauty, peace, and adventure of the outdoors.

His love of aviation extended beyond recreational flying through his service as a 2nd Lieutenant with the Civil Air Patrol, United States Air Force Auxiliary, where he proudly served and encouraged others to pursue their own love of flight.

John was a devoted father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, loyal friend, and passionate aviator. Of all the roles he cherished in life, none meant more to him than his family.

John is lovingly remembered by his son, Bryan Bonner, and Bryan's wife, Rebecca Bonner; his daughter, Heather Lamoriello, and her husband, Mark Lamoriello; his grandchildren, Aiden Bonner, and Harley Bonner; Brett Lamoriello, Mitchell Lamoriello and his wife, Danielle Lamoriello, and his treasured great-grandchildren, Luke Lamoriello and Olivia Lamoriello.

He is also survived by his beloved brother and best friend, Bob Bonner, and Bob's wife, Dawn Bonner; his sister, Laura Gosiewski, and her husband, Alan Gosiewski; his nieces, Lisa Del Vento and her husband, Matt Del Vento, and their daughter, Alessia Del Vento; and Laurie Ann Torres, her daughter, Catherine Lear, and Catherine's husband, Casey Lear, along with their children, Paisley, Braleigh, and Jaxon Lear.

John shared a lifelong bond with his siblings. Bob was not only his brother but also his best friend, and together with Laura they shared a lifetime of laughter, unwavering support, and countless memories. Their love for one another was one of John's greatest blessings, and their close-knit family will forever cherish the time they shared.

John was preceded in death by his parents, John and Donna Bonner.

Those who knew John will remember his kind heart, quiet strength, gentle spirit, and adventurous soul. Whether he was sharing stories around the airport, lending a helping hand, hiking a mountain trail, or simply spending time with the people he loved, John made others feel welcome. He reminded those around him that life's greatest joys weren't found in possessions, but in experiences, family, friendships, and the freedom to chase the horizon.

While our hearts are broken by his passing, we find comfort in knowing his spirit now soars free among the endless blue skies he loved so much and rests in the eternal peace of God's loving embrace.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, August 1, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at the Winter Park Elks Lodge, 4755 Howell Branch Road, Winter Park, Florida 32792.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to the Future Aviators Charitable Foundation (https://futureaviatorsfoundation.org/#donate) in honor of John's lifelong love of aviation and his desire to inspire future generations of pilots.

Some people leave footprints on the earth. John left contrails across the sky, countless memories in his beloved red Cessna 150, and love in the hearts of everyone who knew him.

Blue skies and tailwinds, Dad. Until we meet again.