Barbara Ann Bonkowski

August 13, 1943 – April 9, 2023

Barbara passed away peacefully Sunday April 9th.

Beloved wife of the late Russell for 37 years.

Loving mother of Lisa (Steven) Gerios and Jennifer (Lars) Johnson.

Cherished grandmother of Veronica and Julia.

Sweet sister of the late Marilyn and sister-in-law of Don Hewlett.

Dear daughter of the late Frank and Mary Seavey.

Barbara grew up in Detroit. She loved to dance and would go to mixers where she met the love of her life, Russell while he was playing saxophone in a band at an event for young singles. They were married in 1963 and had two beautiful daughters. The family moved to Novi in 1972 and stayed here until 2019.

Barbara was very talented in the arts. She painted still life and nature scenes, drawing inspiration from her own gardens at her home in Novi as well as her community garden at American House in Warren. She was also a talented seamstress, inspiring granddaughter Veronica to create her own clothing. Barbara enjoyed cheering on star volleyball player granddaughter Julia and hearing the exciting highlights of her games.

Barbara will be missed by all who knew her.

A visitation for Barbara will take place on Wednesday April 12th beginning at 5pm until 8pm at the O'Brien/Sullivan Funeral Home, 41555 Grand River Ave. Novi, MI 48375.

A funeral service will take place on Thursday April 13th at the O'Brien/Sullivan Funeral Home, 41555 Grand River Ave. Novi, MI 48375 beginning with an instate period at 11am with a funeral liturgy at 12pm. Burial will take place at Oakland Hills Memorial Gardens.