Richard Bonert

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Richard Bonert on April 2, 2025 in Owen Sound, Ontario.  Born in Germany, Richard came to Canada in his 40s with his young family, to join the University of Toronto as a Professor of Electrical Engineering.

After retirement, he moved to Owen Sound to enjoy a life embracing all his favourite outdoor activities.  During summers, he loved sailing on Georgian Bay on the Quixotic, spent countless, happy hours hiking and exploring the Bruce Trail, and in winter, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in the area, together with family and friends.

A true lover of the outdoors and for close to 17 years, Richard was a Trail Captain with the Bruce Ski Club and Land Steward of two properties for the Bruce Trail Sydenham section. He was also a member of the Silver C’s and the Georgian Yacht Club.

Richard was also very generous sharing his extensive technical knowledge with friends, family and community organizations needing advice on solar and LED lighting solutions.

Richard leaves his partner, Ella Lund-Thomsen; his sons Martin (Niko) and Michael (Yeony); his grandchildren, Elisabeth, Rhea, Yonas and Lars; his brothers in Germany, Erich (Vera), Ernst (Hilde) and Rudolf; and his sister-in-law Nina Thomsen.

As per Richard’s wishes, there will be no funeral.  Anyone who would like to remember him may make a donation to his chosen organization, the Bruce Trail Conservancy.

Special thanks to Doctors Fenn, Barfoot and Hodgson and all their people in the wonderful palliative care team, as well as all the nurses and care support he had in unit 6-2 at Brightshores Health. Arrangements entrusted to Grey Bruce Cremation and Burial Services, greybrucecremation.com.