Obituary of Leon E. Bonnett

Leon (Lee) E. Bonnett, 72, of Penn Yan, NY passed away on Oct. 07, 2025. He was the son of the late Walter and Louise Bonnett. He was born and raised in Ithaca, NY where he started his long 53 years career as a Fireman, volunteering at the age of 16 and retiring from the Canandaigua VA Fire Department in 2007. He volunteered at many Fire Departments across NY. Leon worked several years at Yates Co. Jail in Penn Yan, NY. He also served in the US Military (Navy and US Army) for 16 yrs. He earned many certificates and awards during his career and was a graduate of Finger Lakes Community College.

He loved helping people, especially if he could use his tools. He cherished his time at Camp-in-the-Woods and his friends there. He never met a stranger, and could talk to anyone. He also loved animals, especially cats. Leon loved his family so much.

He is survived by his sister, Bonnie Thibodeau (nephew Bill); wife Joanie of 16yrs; children, Alicia Nolan of Florida, Erik (Jenn) Bonnett of Missouri, Ivanne Francis of Florida, and Patrick Harris of New York; step-children, Sherrie (Tory)Monson, Leesa Yerkes (Adam) and Bob (Kim) Yerkes, of Penn Yan, NY. Leon has over a dozen grandchildren, including step-grandchildren.

Per Leon's wishes, there will not be any calling hours, wake, or funeral.

If you wish to donate anything, please share those donations with his wife Joanie Bonnett, your local Volunteer Fire Department in his honor or Keuka Comfort Care Home in Penn Yan, NY.