Service Information
Bonnie J. Elfering, age 81, wife of Swede, of Bird Island, Minnesota, passed away on Friday, September 19, 2025, at Buffalo Lake Healthcare Center in Buffalo Lake, Minnesota.
Celebration of Life will be Saturday, September 27, 2025, from 2:00-5:00 P.M., at Max’s Grill in Olivia, Minnesota, with interment in St. Mary’s Cemetery in Bird Island.
Memorials preferred to Olivia Hospital & Clinic or Buffalo Lake Healthcare Center.
Obituary
Bonnie Elfering, age 81, passed away on September 19, 2025. Bonnie lived a life marked by kindness, strength, and deep devotion to her family.
She was married to her beloved husband, Swede Elfering, for 61 years — a testament to their enduring love and partnership. Together, they had two daughters and built a life rooted in faith, family, and deep mutual respect.
Bonnie was a very loving grandmother of 8, and great-grandmother of 6. Her grandchildren held a special place in her heart. She had a unique way of making each grandchild feel as though they were her favorite — a reflection of the boundless love and attention she gave so freely.
Bonnie will be remembered for her homemade caramel brownies and her saying of “grandma baked” even when giving store bought baked goods. Her simple, heartfelt traditions she carried on through the years — especially the annual tradition of making homemade dill pickles and seafood salad for, and alongside her family. These cherished traditions will be lovingly continued by her family, keeping her warm memory alive in their hearts and homes.
Bonnie was a collector throughout her years, having various collections of vintage toys, glassware, loons, and her expansive collection of little wooden trinket containers that she proudly displayed throughout her home. She was also a longtime President for Girl Scouts, where her dedication and leadership earned her a lifetime achievement award recognizing her years of service, commitment, and the positive impact she had.
Bonnie will be remembered for her generous spirit, warm smile, quiet strength, and the comforting presence she brought to all who knew her.
Bonnie is survived by her husband and best friend of 61 years, Swede, and the family they created beginning with their two daughters:
Daughter, Ann (Neil) Dovenmuehle of Hutchinson, MN, and their children,
Jacob (Dana) Kramer and their son, Brooks of Hector, MN,
Jordan (Jen) Kramer and their children Avery, Henry, and Charlie of Hector, MN,
Lindsey Kramer and her significant other, Dillon Hayes of Milaca, MN,
Courtney Kramer (Raeann Sorenson) of Sunburg, MN,
and Ella Dovenmuehle who is currently attending college in Brookings, SD;
Daughter, Jane (Tom) Olinger of Olivia, MN, and their children,
Jesse (Anna) Hagen and their children, Shay and Bella of Danube, MN,
Emery Olinger (significant other, Jonathan Lara) of Alexandria, MN,
Evan Olinger who is currently attending college in Alexandria, MN (significant other, Ximena Barron).
Bonnie is preceded in death by her parents, Leo and Loretta Halliday; sisters, Janie Halliday, Linda Rupp, Pat Miller, Mary Nigut; and brother Dave Halliday.
The family of Bonnie Elfering would like to thank everyone for their thoughts, prayers and kindness during this difficult time. Our wish is that you take the love, generosity, and kindness you received from Bonnie and spread it to your loved ones to keep her memory alive.
Debi Decker says
Ann, Neil, Swede and families of Bonnie,
May the Lord wrap his arms around you to give you strength, comfort and peace as you go on this journey. I never met Bonnie, but after getting to know Ann here at the lake, she had to be one of the Best Moms to raise a darling daughter. Rejoice in her memory. With deepest condolences.
Debi and Nick Decker
Wendy Fox says
Sincere sympathy to Swede and girls. Bonnie’s talent of making Grandchildren feel like her favorite Rand true for everyone lucky enough to know her. She truly was a favorite during my tenure at JP. I adored her and always felt so good after stopping for a chat and thought of her often during my retirement. She will be greatly missed and so fondly remembered by everyone that was lucky enough to share a minute with her! Swede, Jane and Tom -warm hugs.
Marge Rodel Mayer says
My deepest sympathy to Swede and family.