John Bonta

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the unexpected passing of John Elliot Louis Bonta, affectionately known as Johnny, at the age of 29 on January 23, 2025.

Born on December 6, 1995, in Cincinnati, Ohio, Johnny was a cherished son to Jeffrey and Devona Bonta. His journey through life was marked by a deep passion for hockey, a love that took root when he was just two years old, the moment he picked up his older brother's hockey stick. It was as if he was destined to be a hockey player. He started out in Cincinnati, Dayton, Oxford and Ft. Wayne youth hockey programs, eventually playing juniors for Queen City Steam. At the young age of 17, Johnny took a bold step by moving to Montana to join the Helena Big Horns, Bozeman Stingers and a stint with New Hampshire Monarchs. His love for the game led him to travel across the United States, playing for numerous teams including University of Cincinnati, Quad City Storm, Watertown Wolves, Danbury Hat Tricks, Blue Ridge Bobcats, Mississippi Sea Wolves and Covington Street Hockey League before returning to his roots to skate with the Toledo Mobsters.

Johnny leaves behind a loving family who will forever hold him in their hearts. He is survived by his devoted father, Jeffery Bonta (MaryAnne Kahsar), and his nurturing mother, Devona Bonta (Ed Shadday). Johnny’s siblings—Jessica, Jamie (Matthew) Dunlap, and Jacob (Cori) Bonta who share in the profound loss, as do his treasured nieces and nephews: Dawson, Gaige, Macie, Ryder, Ava, Landen, Harper, Addison, Esmè, Camden, and Sigrid.

He is also remembered fondly by his aunts and uncles—Mitch (Sherry) Butler, Shelly (Richard) Horn, Dara (Todd) Stutler, JoNee (the late Tom) Cocharan, Gwen (Mike) Ewing, and Dean (Sharon) Bonta—who all held a special place in his life. Johnny was preceded in death by his beloved grandparents: Jim and Gloria Turner, Janet and Thomas Bonta, as well as his aunts and uncles, Cindy and Greg Foley, and Bradley Bonta, and nephew Brayden Davis.

A memorial visitation will be held on Sunday, February 2, 2025, from 1:00 PM until the time of service at 3:30 PM at Mueller Funeral Home, located at 6791 Tylersville Road, Mason, Ohio 45040.

Johnny’s legacy lives on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him. He was a shining light in our lives, a passionate player on the ice, and a beloved family member and friend. He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered.

In remembrance of Johnny Bonta, the family asks that any charitable donations be made to Epilepsy Alliance Ohio