Bonnie Husler

Bonnie was born in Beaver Dam, WI on August 1, 1941 and moved to Albuquerque where she met her future husband John in the Highland High School Band.  She received her Bachelor of Music Education from The University of New Mexico in 1966.  Her love of music continued even following a care accident where she lost her beautiful alto voice.  She directed the Chapel Choir at Dugway Proving Ground, Utah, both youth and adult church choirs at La Mesa Presbyterian for 20 years, one year interim at Faith Lutheran and 10 years at Rio Rancho Presbyterian.  Her choir rehearsals were always uplifting and we often sang “Avocado” and had an introit and a “Detroit”.  Included were brass, wind and handbell choirs.  Her excellent trumpet skills led her to play in the Albuquerque Symphony Orchestra (as the first woman trumpet player), The NM Brass Ensemble, The Empire Brass, Die Polka Schlingel, Rotary Band, The Albuquerque Concert Band, Rio Grande Symphonic Band and New Horizon Band.  For many years she volunteered her services by playing Taps for military funerals at Santa Fe National Cemetery, Albuquerque and Rio Rancho.

Bonnie was a talented artist.  She was amazing at painting, scrapbooking, quilting, knitting, sewing, crocheting, and needlepoint.  She was great in the kitchen where she loved to cook especially for her grandchildren.  Bonnie is survived by John; daughters, Carrie and Cynthia (Tom); son, Christopher (Kristin); sisters, Margie (Don); Sue Ann (Joe).  She was preceded in death by her parents; and her brother, Tom (Edie).  She was blessed with six grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.  She loved New Mexico and its beautiful landscapes and her wonderful friends.

Contributions to St. Jude’s Hospital, Ronald McDonald House, La Mesa Food Pantry or Storehouse West in Bonnie’s name would be welcomed.  Services TBD.