James (Ted) Bonner of Mount Vernon passed away June 15, 2009, due to complications from diabetes. He was surrounded by Marty, wife of 48 years; son, Tim Bonner of Seattle; daughter, Wendy Carr of Mill Creek; son-in-law, Tim Carr; and grandchildren, Allison, Riley and Natalie Carr. He is survived by a large, loving extended family, including numerous nieces and nephews, and his cousin, Pammie Zorens of Missouri.

Ted was born in Springfield, Ill., on Aug. 23, 1939, to Pat Bonner. He was preceded in death by his mother and his grandparents, James and Corynne Batterton and his uncle and aunt, Randall and Leona Batterton.

He had a life filled with outdoor, adventurous work as a tree trimmer, and also groundman, lineman, foreman, construction coordinator, safety coordinator, manager of safety, supervisor of operations, and manager of operations for Skagit/Island Counties for Puget Power. He proudly worked for Puget for over 30 years.

For seven years he and Marty were owner/operators of Whidbey Divers in Oak Harbor. Ted was an accomplished scuba instructor and taught hundreds of people the beauty and mystery of the underwater world. Some of the best years of his life were spent enjoying the wonders of the Northwest and raising his family on Whidbey Island. In his retirement years he shared a large on-line community of friends. He was highly respected and sought after by many who were continually impressed by his honesty, humor and intelligence. He was gifted at using the English language both spoken and written. Ted was a kind, generous and gentle husband and father, grandfather and friend. He will be deeply missed!

Special thanks to the many fine professionals at Providence Everett, Life Care of Mount Vernon, Skagit Valley Hospital and Kindred Hospital Seattle. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donating to a charity of your choice. No funeral service will be held. Please join the family for a memorial service to celebrate Ted’s life at 12 p.m. Sunday, June 28. The location is Rosario Beach, Deception Pass State Park, Fidalgo Island. Partake in a barbecue, remembrances, great views and much laughter!