Bonnie Lee Weir

Bonnie Lee (Cooper) Weir, was born April 16, 1923 on a farm outside Thayer, Kansas, delivered by her own father, who sat down and cried when the doctor finally arrived. She died August 25, 2013. She was the sixth of nine children born to Pearl D. and Birdette Cooper, seven of whom lived to adulthood. The family moved to Chanute and Bonnie Lee attended school there and soon demonstrated a beautiful singing voice. She performed in numerous grade school, junior and senior high school glee clubs, vocal ensembles and theatrical performances. Music, particularly opera, would continue to be a source of enrichment throughout her life. During WWII, Bonnie Lee moved to Wichita and worked for Boeing. Her marriage to Leslie D. Weir took her to Virginia where she supported their family while he attended university. His career took them to Europe and back onboard the SS “United States”. She took full advantage of the opportunity to travel and enjoy the worlds historic, architectural and artistic treasures throughout England, France, Italy, Germany, Switzerland, Belgium and Monaco. She had two children, Catherine Weir (Albert Mendez) of Austin, TX and Stephen Weir (Renee) of Wichita, both of whom survive her. Upon returning to Kansas, her family became both her focus and support system. She raised her children as a single mother before that role was celebrated by popular culture, making many sacrifices to insure their education, happiness and success in the world. She appreciated her large, extended family and is survived by her youngest brother, Robert D. Cooper (Betty) of Goddard. In addition, she has one granddaughter, Stephanie Cappiello (Kristian) of Wichita, and her first great-grandson is expected in October. One of the greatest joys of her retirement was playing an active role in caring for her granddaughter. She also leaves behind many nieces and nephews and their families to remember her. She took great care of and pride in her garden, producing beautiful flowers and vegetables year after year. Bonnie Lee was employed for many years by Wichita USD 259, working as registrar at Truesdell Junior High School and Heights High School. She treasured the colleagues she worked with who became friends and stayed in touch long after her retirement. A funeral service will be held 3 p.m., Saturday, August 31, at Downing Lahey Mortuary West. Interment will be at 1 p.m., Sunday, September 1, at Valley View Cemetery in Garden City.