Nuncio Bonelli Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

Nuncio “Nick” Joseph Bonelli passed in his sleep at home on February 19th. The name Nuncio is an Italian name meaning “Emissary to the Pope”, and was given to him to honor his paternal grandfather, Judge Nuncio Joseph Bonelli. Born on February 21, 1938 in Chicago, Illinois to Paul and Bernice Bonelli, and survived by three sisters: Margie Parmelee, Paulette (Tom) Badger, Carole (Harry) Adams and many nieces and nephews. Nick is survived by five children Nancy, Paul, Cathy, Dawn, and Joseph and life-time companion and care giver Diana (Dee Dee) Inglett Smith. Nick was proud to have served in the United States Air Force for four years stationed in Texas and in Japan. Returning after service he drove an ambulance for a short time, And then worked as a welder and a machinist. He always had a love for motorcycles. As a child, he was called Little Dickens. Often he was unmanageable, unruly, and very stubborn. Once he made up his mind to do or not do something there was no talking him out of it. As an adult, he was one of the most kind-hearted and generous people you could ever meet. He would give you the shirt off his back, and he would open his home for strangers and friends alike if they needed a place to crash for the night. Even though at times, he could hardly afford to keep himself going. He suffered with a back problem from an accident that happened at work which made it difficult to walk, and in his later years, he was affected by diabetes. He still maintained a good outlook on life, and was always happy to see friends or family stop by. He will be missed by all.

Nuncio Bonelli

February 21, 1938 - February 19, 2016