Bonita Marie Whiting, 65

Bonita Marie Whiting

June 5, 1958 – September 15, 2024

“So, when tomorrow starts without me, don’t think we’re far apart, for every time you think of me, I’m right here, in your heart.” – David Romano

On Sunday, September 15, 2024, Bonita Marie Whiting, 65, of Havelock, NC, was called to Heaven to meet her Savior Jesus Christ after a brief but brave battle with cancer.

Bonnie was born on June 5, 1958, to Richard Francis and Eleanor Ann Sirek in New Prague, MN, where she eventually became the oldest of nine children. Bonnie attended school in New Prague, MN, and graduated from New Prague Senior High in 1977.  In school, she was a member of the marching band and was very active in 4-H. After graduation, Bonnie joined the Marines and rose to the rank of Gunnery Sargeant. Bonnie and Dwayne Whiting were married in 1983. They later divorced but remained best friends until the end. Bonnie loved to hear Dwayne sing to her as he even did as she peacefully left this world. Bonnie loved the Lord Jesus Christ and was a devout member of the First Baptist Church for over forty-four years.

Bonnie and Dwayne welcomed their first adopted son, Trelain, in 1985 and later adopted siblings, Dreama and Kevin in 1993. Dreama passed away from medical complications in 1994.  In 2006 Bonnie became guardian for grandson Noah. Noah lived with Bonnie and was her pride and joy. She loved to attend Noah’s sports functions and was a champion referee heckler at Noah’s soccer games.

Bonnie retired from the Marine Corps in 1995. She then worked for the Department of Defense in civil service until 2018 when she retired for good. After retirement, Bonnie loved to do crafts, go to thrift stores, auctions, yard sales and antique stores. Eventually she created her own online store and had a booth at “Southern Persnickety”, a gift shop in Havelock, NC.  When her best friend and business partner, Cathy, came to visit from New Orleans, they could be spotted having a margarita at their favorite Mexican restaurant and laughing and catching up like schoolgirls. She was full of life and retirement suited her well.

 Bonnie’s heart never left Minnesota. She loved to go home, often staying for months. While in Minnesota, Bonnie loved hanging out with family, catching up with high school friends, and spending time at the family cabin. She enjoyed being one of the Sirek Clan and could tell a childhood story with the best of them.

Bonnie is survived by her family, sons Trelain (Jessica) Whiting of New Bern, NC, Kevin Whiting, and grandson Noah Whiting of Havelock, NC. Siblings, Sandy Rezac of New Prague, MN, Barb Condrey of Lewiston, ID, Jake Sirek of Hutchison, MN, Tom Sirek of Lonsdale, MN, Emil (Angie) Sirek of Lonsdale, MN, Bill (Amy) Sirek of Lonsdale, MN and Jerry (Lynda) Sirek of Elko New Market, MN. She is also survived by her nieces and nephews Melissa, Matt, Becky, Rachel, Anna, RJ, Danielle, Cassie, Randi, Katie, Abby, Zach, Megan, Ryan, Bradan, Isabel and Lynkoln as well as many great-nieces and -nephews.

Bonnie is preceded in death by her father, Richard F. Sirek, mother, Eleanor A. Sirek, sister, Patricia A. Sirek and most precious daughter, Dreama Simone Whiting.

Bonnie will be cremated and laid to rest beside her daughter Dreama on Saturday, September 28, 2024. The First Baptist Church of Havelock, NC, Bonnie’s church of 44 years, will host her funeral at noon with a meal to follow.

Flowers can be sent to Cotton Funeral Home, 2201 Neuse Blvd, New Bern, NC 28560 on Friday, September 27. Donations can be made to the American Cancer Society and Leukemia and Lymphoma Society in Bonnie’s name.

Bonnie’s infectious laugh, motherly ways, and undying devotion to the church and her family will truly be missed.