Constance Jean Van Bonn (Allard), wife, mother, grandmother, and sister, died Thursday, Dec. 26, after a long and courageous battle with dementia. She was 73.
Born in Detroit Aug. 8, 1951, she was the second of four daughters to Frank and Margaret Allard. The family moved to New Hudson, in the mid-1950s, where Connie grew up and graduated from South Lyon Community Schools. It was there, in the fall of 1963, that she met her future husband, John, at a junior high dance. They married on Valentine’s Day in 1970, and together, they raised two children: daughter, Kristin (born 1975) and son, Scott (born 1977).
Connie’s early work experience began as a teenager at a local restaurant in New Hudson. Over the years, she worked in various office positions, where she was known for her organizational skills and strong work ethic.
She found joy in life’s simple pleasures—cooking family meals, maintaining a beautiful home, and spending time outdoors. Connie had a special love for the water, whether at the beach, swimming in the pool, or relaxing with a long, hot bath at the end of each day. She also had a sweet tooth and delighted in cherry pie and Dairy Queen Blizzards.
She cherished the moments she shared with grandchildren Brooklyn and Brayden Bickley, and Emerie and Easton Van Bonn.
Connie was preceded in death by her parents Frank and Margaret Allard. She leaves behind her husband of 54 years, John; daughter, Kristin (Troy Kent); son, Scott (Jodi); three sisters Vickie Frisbey, Cindy Curtsinger, and Wendy Laidlaw; and four cherished grandchildren Brooklyn and Brayden Bickley, and Emerie and Easton Van Bonn.
The family will greet relatives and friends from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday, Jan. 3, at Kubiak-Cook Funeral Home, 4330 18th Street, Dorr, and again from 10 to 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 4, at LifeChange Community Church, 314 Newell St., Door, followed by a memorial service at the church, beginning at 11 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to Hospice of Michigan. Checks can be mailed to Hospice of Michigan, 989 Spaulding Ave SE, Ada, MI 49301 or donations can be made online at www.hom.org/donations.
