BLAIR, Neb. — Bonnie Jo Gutschow, a cherished longtime resident of Blair, Nebraska, passed away on Friday, August 7, 2026, at the age of 67 surrounded by her loving family. Born on October 13, 1958, in Storm Lake, Iowa, she eventually settled in Blair, where she met the love of her life, Mark Gutschow, at age 15. The teenage sweethearts married on March 12, 1982, and built a four-decade marriage defined by unwavering devotion, shared laughter, and mutual support as Mark pursued his degrees and career in education. Her passing marks a profound loss for her family, friends, and the entire Blair community.
Decades of Service to Blair Community Schools and Local Families
Known affectionately to generations of students and staff as "Miss Bonnie," her career was defined by selfless dedication to helping others. After beginning her secretarial career at Con-E-Co, she spent decades serving students, families, and colleagues at Arbor Park School and across Blair Community Schools as a secretary, health aide, and substitute teacher until her retirement in 2024. Her warm smile, quiet strength, and encouraging spirit made her a comforting fixture in local classrooms for decades. Even during treatments at Nebraska Medicine, her signature kindness and gratitude never wavered as she continuously thanked her healthcare team.
Family Prepares Services at St. Francis Borgia Catholic Church
Bonnie was a devoted mother to her three children—Shannon (Mark) Jones, Kiley (Cole) Fredrick, and Blake (Brittany) Gutschow—and adored her title of "Gigi" to her grandchildren Ellasyn Mae, Lakely Jo, Benson Lee, and Graceyn Meadow. Visitation will take place Tuesday, August 11, 2026, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at St. Francis Borgia Catholic Church in Blair, followed by a Rosary at 7:00 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. at St. Francis Borgia Catholic Church, with burial following at Holy Cross Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to the family for later designation to Blair Community Schools.
