Date of Birth:
Tuesday, December 16, 1941
Date of Death:
Saturday, March 27, 2021
Age:
79 years old

Veronica “Bonnie” Mudge

Veronica L. “Bonnie” Mudge, 79, of Rochester, MN died peacefully at home-as desired-Saturday, March 27, 2021, after a procession of visits by loved ones.

Bonnie married her husband, Gary Mudge, in 1967. As a young mom, Bonnie donned an impeccable beehive and go-go boots, and their 6 kids filled the home, energized by a soundtrack of Tom Jones, The Supremes, and Tina Turner. Eventually, she graduated at the top of her Nursing School class and switched to pinning her long auburn hair neatly under a starched cap and wearing a bright white uniform. Bonnie was thrilled and her family felt immense pride at this accomplishment since she did it while raising a family and working at Bilotti’s (she was highly skilled with the brick pizza oven).

Bonnie was a Registered Nurse at Rochester Methodist Hospital for over 4 decades. Like her mom before her, Bonnie was both challenged and fulfilled by nursing. Her colleagues in Hematology at Mayo, and people she cared for as patients, provided a steady diet of strength, compassion, and perseverance.

Some 12 hour shifts also fed her appreciation of the absurd and healthy sense of humor.

She, Gary, and family members occasionally enjoyed travel, with Hawaii and Wisconsin Dells among favorite destinations. Attending grandkids gymnastic meets was another treasured adventure.

Aside from her human family, Bonnie loved the dogs in her life, from Jinxy the Toy Poodle to her later Great Danes.

Her large family will miss many things about Bonnie: Her joys at spotting a fawn in the yard, horses in a pasture, or a good shopping deal…her “special potatoes,” her fondness for a cup of coffee, or Pepsi (never Coke), and definitely, her laugh.

Survivors include her husband, children (5 surviving), many grandchildren and great grandchildren, a brother, sister-in-law, nieces, and nephews.

Special mention goes to Father Thomas A. Loomis for his kindness, comfort, and timing in giving Bonnie Last Rites.

The Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, April 5, 2021 in the River Park Chapel at Macken Funeral Chapel, 1119 11 1/2 St. SE, Rochester, MN 55904.Visitation will be one hour prior to the service. This will also be live-streamed from the chapel for those who cannot attend in person.

Memorials may be sent to Gary Mudge, C/O Michele Maus.