Maryellen “Bonny” Gorgas
1932 – 2026
Maryellen “Bonny” Gorgas, 93, of Sonora, passed away peacefully, around family, at her home on May 8, 2026. She was born in Chicago in 1932. Bonny spent her early years between Chicago, Illinois, then San Pedro, California, and then well over 60 years making her home and building her life in the Sonora community.
Bonny lived a life defined by creativity, activity, and deep connections. An avid painter and golfer, she found joy in both the quiet focus of her art and the spirited camaraderie of the green. Her adventurous spirit led her to travel the world, yet her greatest fulfillment always came from the laughter shared with family and friends.
She was preceded in death by her father John Riedel, mother Dolores Cone, her husband, Edmund Gorgas; her son, Daniel Barendregt; and her sister, Lori Riedel.
Her legacy of love continues through her family, their spouses and children. She will continue to be honored and remembered by her children Gilda Barendregt, Marnie and Bill Gorgas, her brothers Greg and Jeff Riedel; four grandchildren, Rodney Klein, Mary DeBisschop, Matthew Barendregt, and Trevor Barendregt; and a thriving lineage of 14 great-grandchildren and 8 great-great-grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations to FOAC
