Martha “Marty” Bonar
- On January 7, 2026
- 6 Comments
Martha “Marty” Bonar, age 84, of Granville, Ohio, passed away peacefully surrounded by her daughter, son-in law, and her 3 grandchildren on January 4, 2026. Born on February 22, 1941, in Vestaburg, Pennsylvania, she was the daughter of the late Mary and Michael Baker. Marty was the beloved wife of the late Daniel “Don” Bonar, who preceded her in death. She was proud to be the daughter of a coal miner and the husband of a West Virginia farmer.
Marty’s lifelong passion for education and service to others began early. A proud graduate of Bethlehem Joint High School in 1959, she went on to earn her Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from The Ohio State University in 1963. After graduation, Marty completed an internship at Duke University Medical Center, training as a dietetic intern. She later served as a therapeutic dietitian at The Ohio State University Medical Center for two years before returning to her first love, teaching.
Marty’s dedication to education led her to complete a Master’s degree in Education from The Ohio State University, furthering her commitment to shaping the minds of future generations. She taught for many years in Granville, where she was a beloved elementary school teacher, known for her warmth, compassion, and dedication to her students. Her influence extended far beyond the classroom, impacting students and parents throughout the Granville community and beyond.
She is survived by her loving daughter, Mary, and her three cherished grandchildren, Katie, Ken, and Isabella, and her loving son in law, Ken, who were the light of her life. Marty was deeply proud of her family, and her greatest joy came from spending time with her grandchildren.
Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her, especially her students, who remember her not only for her expertise but for the kindness and encouragement she always offered with storage bins of education materials given to her students.
Marty’s legacy of love, education, and service to others will never be forgotten.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Bonar Family Mentoring and Teaching Excellence Award at Denison University, PO Box 2007, Mount Vernon, OH 43050-7207 or made on-line: https://denison.edu/support-denison/ways-to-give
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