Bonnie J. Matuszwski, 73, of Niles, passed away on Wednesday October 7, 2026 at her residence.

When she was born March 29, 1953 in Warren her parents, Norman Lazear and Mary Wright Lazear, named her Bonita, which means beautiful. Anyone who knew her would agree it suited her perfectly, as she was as beautiful in mind and spirit as she was to the eye. It was not in her nature to be unkind to anyone. She saw herself as no better or worse than anyone else and she naturally saw the humanity in everyone she met. She could find happiness and joy in the simplest of things and was genuinely and sincerely happy celebrating the little victories of others.

Bonnie was a 1971 graduate of Niles McKinley High School where she excelled in mathematics and art and was also selected as Yearbook Queen by Jerry Lewis. She graduated from ETI Technical School in Niles and was employed in medical billing, coding, and accounting.

She enjoyed dancing, cooking and baking for her family, and music of all kinds. You could find anything from "Nessun Dorma" to "Love Me Tender" on Bonnie's playlist. She was a devoted avid fan of Elvis Presley and saw him in concert over 30 times!

Above all, Bonnie loved spending time with her daughter, grandchildren, and her large family. She made every effort to remember birthdays, and found opportunities to celebrate their accomplishments and make each of them feel special.

Bonnie will be sadly missed by her daughter, Katie Matuszwski, of Girard, a brother, Loren Lazear, of Salem, a sister, Janice Jones of Massillon, granddaughters Adriana Durst and Presley Durst, as well as countless friends and extended family members.

Bonnie will be remembered for her kindness, her grace, and her beauty, and also for her limitless loving hugs and healing kisses which she freely gave to all. She loved to see butterflies, especially white ones, which reminded her of her mother's presence. Those she leaves behind will now think of her fondly whenever they see a white butterfly.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

There will be no service or calling hours per Bonnie's wishes, however, a private Celebration of Bonnie's Life will be held at a later date.

Arrangements are handled by The Joseph Rossi and Sons Funeral Home in Niles.

In lieu of flowers, simply smile at a stranger or perform a random act of kindness in remembrance of Bonnie.

To share a memory, send a condolence, or view sympathy flowers and gifts, please visit Bonnie’s tribute page at www.josephrossifuneralhome.com.