Bonnett, Paul Russell

Paul Russell Bonnett, 90, of rural North Liberty, died peacefully in his sleep at home on Tuesday, Nov. 16, 2010. Military honors will be provided at Oak Hill Cemetery in Coralville at 11 a.m. Friday, Nov. 19, 2010. 

Survivors includes his children, Karyl L. Bonnett (North Liberty) and DeWayne A. Bonnett (Strawberry Point); and siblings, William “Bill” K. Bonnett (Fresno, Calif.) and Mary D. Craft (Don) (Johnson, Iowa); grandchildren, Stephanie M. (Troy Mills), Brenda V. (Pasadena, Calif.), Jeffery D. (Aliso Viejo, Calif.) Fareyd A. (North Liberty), Caleb J. (Hillsboro, Ore.,), Bethany J. (Cedar Falls), Tracy P. (North Liberty) and Rachel L. Kubik (Hawaii).

He was preceded in death by his parents; siblings, Ronald and Emma Jane Martindale; his wife, Virginia; and eldest son, Dennis Paul Bonnett.

Paul was born June 27, 1920, near Bussey, Iowa, the son of William and Faye (King) Bonnett. He was voted most athletic of his high school class due to his prowess in multiple sports. He joined the Civilian Conservation Corps in order to help his family during the Depression. He earned $30 per month of which $25 was sent home to his family. Paul joined the Army after the outbreak of World War II. He married Virginia Kathleen Saffell on July 24, 1943, in Savannah, Ga., while stationed there for training.

He initially served in the Coast Artillery, Puerto Rico, where he acquired malaria. After a short stint back in the USA for recovery and more training, he arrived in France three weeks after D-Day as an infantry replacement to the “lucky 7th” Armored Division. In hindsight, Paul felt they were lucky since the 7th was issued winter clothing before the Battle of the Bulge while others, such as the 101st Airborne, went without. Paul served in France, Holland, Belgium, Germany, and Austria. He earned 4 battle stars and a Bronze Star.

After his discharge Paul and Virginia took up residence in Cedar Rapids. They built a new home in North Liberty after Virginia retired from Rockwell-Collins.

Online condolences may be sent for his family through the web at

Gay & Ciha Funeral and Cremation Service of Iowa City is caring for Paul's family and his services.