Bonnie Jean Kienlen, 86, of Burlington, died Thursday, March 13, 2025, at the Southeast Iowa Regional Hospice House in West Burlington.
Born on Nov. 2, 1938, in Cameron, Ill., she was the daughter of Otis V. and Eva M. Walker Harrison. On Sept. 28, 1968, she married the love of her life, Richard W. Kienlen, in Moline, Ill.
Bonnie dedicated 32 years to working at Champion Spark Plug where she built lasting friendships. She later worked for seven years at Walmart in customer service. Her faith was an anchor in her life, and she was a devoted member of the Lutheran Church.
Bonnie’s life was a testament to her strength and peace that comes from a relationship with Christ. She exemplified how to walk in faith, teaching not only her children but also her beloved grandchildren, the importance of relying on Christ through life’s many twists and turns. Her unwavering faith was a guiding light, and she showed by example how to live a life of love, patience, and grace, even in times of hardship.
Bonnie had a unique gift for making others feel special. Whether it was through her thoughtful gifts, cooking and baking for those she loved, or spending time chatting and laughing, her care and generosity knew no bounds. She could often be found "piddling" around the house, redecorating or taking on a new project, always with a warm smile and a heart full of love. She had a special way of making people feel like family, whether it was through a phone call, a visit, or a helping hand when someone needed it most. Bonnie’s heart was big, and it extended far beyond her immediate family.
Bonnie loved playing cards with her card clubs and making handmade cards and other crafts. There was always laughter and good-natured banter. Bonnie was also a St. Louis Cardinals baseball fanatic. She enjoyed watching ball games on TV and attended many games with family at Busch Stadium. Above all, Bonnie’s greatest joy was spending time with her family and grandchildren.
Bonnie’s strength was unmatched. She faced numerous challenges, including a battle with breast cancer and a stroke, but she always fought with incredible resilience. She cherished her independence, and through it all, she never gave up on maintaining it.
Surviving Bonnie are her children Rick (Tina) Kienlen of Burlington; Shelly (Don) Dade of Weeki Wachee, Fla.; Richie (Evangela) Kienlen of Cleveland, Tenn.; Stacy (Tracy) McCampbell of Burlington; along with 17 grandchildren and 26 great-grandchildren. She also leaves behind her six siblings, sister Betty Hanneken of Wellsville, Mo. and brothers Richard Harrison of Kirksville, Mo., Robert Harrison of Palmyra, Mo., Ronald Harrison of Troy, Mo., Russell Harrison of Mt. Pleasant and Roger Harrison of Mount Pleasant, as well as many beloved nieces and nephews.
Bonnie’s spirit will live on through our stories, the traditions she created and the love she gave to others. She lived a life well-lived.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Richard; her parents; her daughter, Lisa Nichols; and her grandson, Tray McCampbell.
Visitation will be from 10 to 11 a.m., Monday, March 17, 2025 at Messiah Lutheran Church.
The funeral service for Mrs. Kienlen will be 11 a.m. Monday, March 17, 2025, at Messiah Lutheran Church with Pastor DaMisha McFarland-Pollock officiating. Burial will be in Aspen Grove Cemetery.
A memorial has been established for The Burlington Homeless Shelter.