Bonnie Jean Brink

Bonnie Jean Brink, age 97, of Milwaukie Oregon, passed away September 29, 2025 in her home from natural causes. Bonnie was born on January 17, 1928 in Kent, Washington, the youngest of three children of George and Minnie Hawes. Bonnie grew up on a farm so she was quite familiar with hard work. Her green thumb and love of flowers was always part of her life. She graduated from Kent High School in 1946 and attended the University of Washington where she met her husband, James Francis Brink. Bonnie and Jim were married in 1947 and lived for two years in Kent, Washington before moving to Portland, Oregon in 1950. They had five sons that were the center of her life in the1950s through the 1970s. Between caring for the home (for Bonnie everything had its proper place), her husband, and her five sons (James, Robert, Michael, Stephen and John) there was not much time for relaxation except for an occasional trip to the Oregon coast, visit family in Washington, or Las Vegas (Bonnie enjoyed rolling the dice). In later years Bonnie and Jim travelled extensively to many countries with a cruise or two in between. Bonnie more than enjoyed Bridge and the associated strategy and friendships though she could never get her sons to appreciate the game. She was actively involved with her church (Milwaukie Presbyterian) and was a March of Dimes volunteer for many years.

Bonnie enjoyed sports, particularly baseball. Bonnie may hold the record for baseball games watched by a mother and grandmother. In later years she loved to watch the Seattle Mariners and rooted for them all through their continuous rebuilding years. In her final year of life she looked forward to hearing from family, particularly her 11 grandchildren. Of special note is her grandson Nicholas who called Bonnie before every game he pitched in minor league baseball.

Bonnie would admit that she did not get everything right as a wife for 70 years and a mother for 77 years; however, she tried as hard as any wife and mother could and earned the right to be called a good and faithful servant.

Bonnie is survived by 5 sons, 11 grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren, 1 great-great grandchild and a sister-in-law.

A funeral service for Bonnie will take place October 19, 2025 at Milwaukie Presbyterian Church.