Bonnie L. Gagner, 78, left us on November 6, 2025, leaving a void filled with cherished memories and enduring love. Born on October 3, 1947, in Grand Lake Stream, Maine, Bonnie was the daughter of the late George "Sonny" and Edith (Gilmor) Sprague. A proud resident of Grand Lake Stream, Bonnie's life was a testament to her love for her community, family, and profession.
Bonnie's journey of lifelong learning and service began with her graduation from Woodland High School in 1965. Later in life she returned to Woodland High School as a cheerleading coach, her team earning two state championships. Her compassionate nature led her to the Bridgeport Hospital School of Nursing, where she graduated in 1968. On February 15, 1969, she married her high school sweetheart, Robert Gagner, a union that stood the test of time for 56 years. Bonnie's nursing career took her from Connecticut to Maine and finally to Arkansas, where she made significant safety and health improvements at Georgia Pacific Crossett Mill. No matter where she went, her dedication to the well-being of others remained unwavering.
Back in Grand Lake Stream, Bonnie's love for the outdoors and her community shone brightly. She loved spending time at her camp in Dyer Cove on West Grand Lake, making lasting memories with her family and families. She was an active member of the Grand Lake Stream Strumming Wildcats and previously participated in community theater. Bonnie's creativity extended beyond the stage, as she was also a gifted seamstress, quilter, and baker. Her commitment to service was reflected in her membership with the Eastern Star, where she rose to become a state officer.
Bonnie leaves behind a legacy of love and dedication. She is survived by her devoted husband, Robert Gagner, and their two sons, Robert Gagner II and wife Jill, and William Gagner. A proud grandmother, Bonnie's love extended to her seven grandchildren, Emily Richter and husband Jayson, Kayla Gagner and husband James Alley, Beau Gagner, Rylan Gagner, Rilee Barteaux and husband Jack, Nicholas Himmelwright and fiance Bayley Bryant, and Mallory Walker, and three great-grandchildren, Vivian Richter, Maren Alley, Charlotte Barteaux. Bonnie's twin sister Beth Pullen, along with her brother-in-law Timothy Gagner and sisters-in-law Natalie Kaler and Nancy Costello, will cherish her memory, as will her numerous nieces and nephews.
Bonnie's life will be celebrated with a graveside service in the spring at the Village Cemetery in Grand Lake Stream. Arrangements are handled by Mays Funeral Home & Cremation Services. We encourage family and friends to share their memories and upload photos on Bonnie's memorial page at www.MaysFuneralHome.com. Your stories and pictures will serve as a comforting reminder of the love, joy, and warmth Bonnie brought into our lives.