L. F. “BUCK” BONNER, JR.

1933-2017

Louis Franklin (Buck) Bonner, Jr. Born in Houston on the opening day of deer season, November 16, 1933, Buck died peacefully at home in the early morning of October 21, 2017. Predeceased by his parents LaTrelle Wattinger Bonner and Louis F. Bonner, and by his brother William H. Bonner, Buck is survived by his devoted wife of fifty years, Leigh Flowers Bonner, and by his sons Louis F. Bonner III and Travis Duncan Bonner. A lifelong Houstonian, Buck was a graduate of Lamar High School and the University of Texas, where he received a B.S. in physics and, for his work in topology, an M.A. in mathematics. A state-ranked wrestler and swimmer, he was a member of Sigma Chi. His talent for mathematics led to an early career in computer design including programming the NASA Apollo missions. Later Buck dedicated himself to commercial real estate and to the timber business at his farm on the Neches River in Angelina County. An irrepressible wit and provoker of mirth; teller of tales rich in memory, humorous detail and texture; a sportsman and sailor; wonderful counselor and constant friend, Buck cared deeply for his family, his friends, his church and the land. At St. John the Divine he served on the Vestry as both Junior Warden and later as Senior Warden. Additionally, he was active in the Cursillo Movement and enjoyed decades of participation in Sunday School and Covenant Group. Buck treasured his friendships as a member of the Tuesday Morning Breakfast Club and the Second Wednesday Lunch Bunch. He was loved for his humor and counsel by his grandsons: Blair Bonner, Brandon Bonner, and William (Liam) Bonner; and by his nieces and nephews: Kelty Baker (Bruce McFarlin), Eliza Graham, Jason Downie (Berkeley), Katherine Granberry (Dustin), and Elizabeth Flowers (Tony Plata). He will also be remembered with love by his many Godchildren. His memorial service will be officiated by The Rev. Dr. Clay Lein at 3 P.M. Thursday, October 26, 2017, at the Church of St. John the Divine, 2450 River Oaks Boulevard, Houston, TX 77019. For memorial gifts, his family suggests St. John the Divine or Bo’s Place, 10050 Buffalo Speedway, Houston, TX 77054.