Elizabeth “Bonnie” Vanderwest, 82, peacefully departed from this earthly life on March 4, 2023

Elizabeth “Bonnie” Vanderwest

Elizabeth “Bonnie” Vanderwest, 82, peacefully departed from this earthly life on March 4, 2023, surrounded by her adoring family, her music, and many art treasures. Bonnie is survived by her beloved husband of 21 years, John “Tom” Vanderwest; her three daughters, Tammy, Tawnya, and Michelle Majeski; and their spouses José Quiroga and Janay Ferguson. A resident of Florence since December, 2004, she was born and raised in Muskegon, Michigan, graduated from Michigan State University, and obtained her master’s degree from Western Michigan University.  She served as a teacher, counselor, and principal in middle and secondary schools in Michigan and Los Angeles. She was a friend to all, and will be fondly remembered for her warm smile, vivacious laugh, generous spirit, and devotion to family and many friends. She loved traveling the world with Tom, playing her piano, and collecting fine art. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to Springfield Ronald McDonald House at the Peace Health Heartfelt House or Peace Health Hospice (Peace Harbor Medical Center Foundation). No memorial is currently planned.