Bonnie S. (Hipke) Schwartzman, age 82, of Merrill, WI, passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 26, 2026, at her home, surrounded by her loving family. Bonnie was born on April 29, 1943, in Merrill, WI, to the late Harold and Eloise (Travis) Hipke. She graduated from Merrill High School in 1961 where she was actively involved in student life. Bonnie played trumpet in the school band and served as president of the Pep Club. She was also a dedicated member of Student Council and the Library Science Club. Following graduation, she continued her love of music as a member of the Merrill City Band.
On December 21, 1963, she married the love of her life, Wallace Schwartzman. Together, they built a loving home and were blessed with three daughters. Bonnie devoted her life to her family as a homemaker and stay-at-home mom and taught Sunday School at the United Methodist Church. She enjoyed feeding the birds and watching them from her favorite chair. She found great joy in cooking and caring for those she loved. Her kitchen was the heart of her home where family gathered often. Her grandchildren especially cherished time spent around Grandma’s kitchen counter where the coffee was always on, a sweet treat was never far away, and big breakfasts were made with love. Among her many delicious desserts, her strawberry rhubarb pie was a favorite. Weekdays at 4:00 PM were spent watching Jeopardy. Family meant everything to Bonnie. She loved her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren and took great pride in each of them. She never missed an opportunity to attend their concerts, games, or musicals. They were truly the light of her life. Bonnie also enjoyed music and sports. She was a fan of old country music and especially loved listening to Elvis Presley, Conway Twitty, Loretta Lynn, and Tammy Wynette. She cheered on her favorite teams including the Brewers, Phillies, and Packers, and was also a big fan of NASCAR driver, Jeff Gordon.
Survivors include her daughters. Deanna (Mark) Burns, Mary (Steve) Holz, and Sue (Brad) Geiss; her grandchildren, Kyle (Shauna), Colton, Erica, Katrina (Eric), Marissa (Casey), Garret (Samantha), and Brady (Olivia); and her great-grandchildren, Brantley, Aiden, Liam, Owen, Easton, Wallace, Sophia, Frankie, Beau, Riley, Parker, Gavin, Matthew, and Olivia, in addition to her great-granddaughter due in June. She was preceded in death by her husband, Wally; her parents, Harold and Eloise; her in-laws, Raymond and Sophie Schwartzman; her brother, Cecil (Bonnie Jean); her sister, Janice; five brothers-in-law; five sisters-in-laws; three nephews; and one niece.
In accordance with Bonnie’s wishes, no formal services will be held. Generations Funeral Home & Crematory is assisting the family. You may view Bonnie’s obituary and leave online condolences at generationsfuneral.com.
