The world became a little less bright on June 2, 2024, with the passing of Joseph (Joe) Bonagofski. Joe was born on Sept. 17, 1930, to Roy and Irene Bonagofski, in Selfridge, North Dakota, a small farming town. He was the second oldest in a family of 14 children. Even in his youth, he had a passion for the outdoors and often told stories about going on long walks with his trusted Jack Russell terrier by his side. Hunting and fishing remained a lifelong passion.
In his early teens, Joe and his father headed West seeking better opportunities and eventually settled in the Centralia/Chehalis, Washington, area. The rest of the family then followed. After working odd jobs, including on a turkey farm, Joe found a job with the Union Pacific railroad, where he worked for over 40 years. This job took him to Portland, where he stayed until moving to Redmond, then Bend, 2022-24.
Just prior to his retirement in 1994, Joe met and married Carolyn. They remained together for nearly 30 years until his passing. Joe believed that love, not blood, made a family. He was masterful at ensuring all his “blended” family — kids, stepchildren and grandchildren — were recognized, appreciated and, most importantly, loved. We loved you, too, Joe. You were a good man, and you are missed.
A service and celebration of Joe’s life will take place at 10 a.m., July 3, at Lincoln Memorial Park & Funeral Home, 11801 SE Mt. Scott Blvd., Portland, Oregon, 97086. Anyone who was privileged to know Joe is encouraged and welcome to attend.
For those who can't make it but wish to send a card, please send it to the funeral home, and your card will be forwarded to the family.
