Gregory Alan Bonnell

Gregory “Greg” Alan Bonnell passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 6, 2024. He was born on June 15, 1949 in Robinson, Illinois. Greg was the devoted son to the late Chuck and late Lou (nee Jamison) Bonnell.

Greg is survived by his loving wife of 51 years, Donna (nee Dellacca) sister Becky (Butch) Thomas and sister-in-law Susan Dellacca. He is further survived by his sons John (Bevin) Bonnell, Andrew (Vara) Bonnell and Ryan (Dawn) Bonnell. He was a beloved Papa to Nathan, Joshua, Kate, Lilly, Penelope, Charlie and Mira. Greg is also survived by his niece Greta nephews Dave and Kris and their families, as well as cousins, other relatives and countless friends.

Greg graduated from Robinson High School in 1967. He played three varsity sports, was a leader and excelled in academics. Prior to graduating, on Christmas Eve 1966, Greg had his first date with who would become “the love of his life”, Donna.  They were married in March 1972.

Greg graduated from Eastern Illinois University in 1971 with a degree in Business and a major in Accounting. He was awarded the 2009 Distinguished Alumnus Award from the School of Business. Greg was also the EIU Beta Gamma Sigma Chapter Honoree for 2002, served on the Accountancy Advisory Board and had been an EIU Foundation member since 2007. 

Upon graduation, Greg began his insurance career and spent nearly 20 years at Baldwin & Lyons. In 1995, he founded Motor Transport Underwriters (MTU). Greg built a successful company, which became more than a group of co-workers. It felt much more like a family. Greg was a generous and respected leader. 

In business and in life, everyone that Greg encountered quickly learned he was caring, genuine and put others before himself. Greg came with a big personality. He instantly made everyone feel like a friend, was ready with a joke for any occasion and had a powerful deep voice that will be missed dearly.

Greg’s true pride and joy were his wife, three sons, their spouses and the families they created. He loved nothing more than being surrounded by his family. After a gathering with the family, at the end of the evening, he would look at Donna and say, “Wasn’t that wonderful?  We are blessed.”

Greg loved the game of golf. On a nice summer day, you would likely find him with the guys at Woodland. He and Donna spent 25 wonderful winters in Florida, where they hosted family and friends and created lifelong memories.  He was also an avid reader and history buff. He would often say, “so many books, so little time.”

Greg donated resources and time to numerous philanthropies and charities. A very humble man from a small town, Greg achieved success that afforded him the opportunity to give back. He did this with his money, time and love. Greg was a deeply spiritual man who treated everyone he encountered with respect and dignity.

He found his strength in God, and lived a life filled with kindness and love. 

Visitation will be held on Saturday, January 20, 2024 at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church – North Indy Campus from 1:00-3:00pm. A Memorial Service will follow the visitation.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Wheeler Mission Ministries or St. Lukes United Methodist Church’s Crooked Creek Food Pantry.