Bonnie R. Mates

Bonnie R. Mates, 88, of Auburn, passed away Wednesday, June 11th, at home surrounded by her loving family after a courageous battle with Alzheimer’s disease.

Born in Summit Station on September 14, 1936, she was the daughter of the late Clara (Echternacht) and Henry C. Fessler.

Bonnie was the widow of Edward L. Mates who passed away in 2008.

She was a 1954 graduate of Auburn High School.

Bonnie was a homemaker most of her life.

She was a member of St. John's Church in Auburn as well as the Auburn Area Historical Society.

Bonnie loved to host large family gatherings at her home and truly cherished the time she spent with her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Bonnie is survived by two daughters, Sharon (Kevin) Berger, of Auburn; Stacey Corondi, of Auburn; grandchildren: Lauren (Paul) Yelinek, Kevin (Amanda) Berger, Evan (Alissa) Corondi, Avery (Derek) Corondi; great grandchildren: Cole & Carson Yelinek, and Clara Berger. She is also survived by a brother, Lee (Marlene) Fessler; her twin sister, Connie (Richard) Reinhart; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents and husband, Bonnie is preceded in death by a sister, Pearl Leitzel; brothers, Charles & Carl Fessler; and a son-in-law, Thomas Corondi.

The family would like to thank the entire staff of Compassus Hospice Care for their compassion and support towards Bonnie and her loved ones. 

A Celebration of Life Memorial will be held at 3:00 PM on Wednesday, June 18th at St. John’s Church in Auburn with Rev. Walter Breiner officiating. A visitation will be held from 2:00 PM until the beginning of the service.

Interment will be held privately at the family’s convenience.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. John's Church, P.O. Box 103 Auburn, PA 17922 or Auburn Fire & Ambulance Co., P.O. Box 137 Auburn, PA 17922.