Bonnie Schlesselman

Bonnie C. Schlesselman, 82, died on March 4, 2024, at Mayflower Health Center in Grinnell, Iowa. Per her wishes, cremation rites have been accorded.

Bonnie was born on December 4, 1941, to Lester and LaRetta Baird in Montezuma, the oldest of 7. Bonnie was a 1960 Grinnell High School graduate and attended college in Minnesota to become a medical assistant. After graduation, she returned to Montezuma, Iowa and worked for Dr. Caldwell’s Medical Clinic.

While working at the medical clinic she met Carl Schlesselman. They were married on April 14, 1963. During their 41-year marriage they resided on their family farm in Deep River, Iowa. They raised 2 children and farmed until 1985. She then began her career with Brownells and retired in 2009. Prior to her husband’s death in 2005, she enjoyed attending dances that her husband’s band would play. Bonnie moved to the Mayflower Community in 2020 and resided there until her death.

In retirement Bonnie kept busy with church, grandchildren and attending to the farm. Her love and passion were keeping a meticulous lawn and homestead. It was not uncommon to see daily sightings of her riding the beloved John Deere mower.

Let to cherish her memory is her daughter Kris (Peter) Kiernan, son Mike, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and siblings. Bonnie was proceeded in death by her parents, her husband, and a brother.

Our family would like to thank the Mayflower Community and Health Center for their wonderful care for Bonnie over the years.

Per her wishes, no service is planned. She will be interred at a future date next to her husband, Carl.

Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May their souls and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.