Robert Henry Bonner

1949 – 2021

Robert H. Bonner, 71 (also affectionately known as “Bob”, “Bobby”, and “Bonner”) passed away January 27, 2021 surrounded by his family in Cleveland, Ohio. Robert was born on March 4, 1949 in Cleveland, Ohio to the late Robert H. Bonner, Sr. and the late Helen Bonner (nee Jefferson).

Robert is survived by his wife of 49 years and love of his life, Linda Mae Bonner (Hill) of University Heights, Ohio and children Kenyon Bonner (Sylvana), Ebony Bonner (Mwan Henry), and Rasheed Bonner. He is survived by his younger brothers Michael Bonner, Jeffrey Bonner, Anthony Bonner, Gregory Bonner, and sister, Kim Bonner.

Robert gleamed with never-ending pride about the close-knit family he so lovingly led. He relished his role as the proud grandfather to Ijhad, Jaden, Grant, Jasmine, and Chase. It is through his children and grandchildren that his legacy lives.

As a graduate of East Technical High School in 1968, Robert went on to attend The Ohio State University and later earned his Bachelor of Science in Social Work from Cleveland State University.

In 2002, Robert retired from the Cuyahoga County Department of Job and Family Services as the Executive Officer of Participant Services after 33 years of service. During his tenure he championed welfare reform, led and implemented the CRIS-E program, and left behind an enduring legacy of policy, practice, and reform for Ohio’s human services system.
Robert gave tirelessly in his career, and with endless love and joy he protected and provided for the wants and needs of his wife and family. He was also a father figure to countless other “adopted” children who were significantly impacted by his guidance, love, and acceptance.

He is remembered for his creativity, sense of humor, loving candor, warm generosity, vivid storytelling, and his infinite and calming wisdom. Robert enjoyed spending quality time with his family. He also enjoyed basketball, video games, food, chess, reading, music, the Cleveland Cavaliers, and the Cleveland Browns.

Robert is also a survivor of prostate cancer. In lieu of flowers, the Bonner family would like donations to be made in the name of Robert H. Bonner to the American Heart Association, American Cancer Society, or the American Diabetes Association.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, a celebration of Robert’s life will be announced at a later and safer date.