1934---2025
Richard D. Bonfy, born on September 13, 1934, in Ralston, Oklahoma, passed away surrounded by loved ones on July 6, 2025. He leaves behind a legacy of hard work, joy, and compassionate service. The son of Quay and Margie Bonfy, Dick graduated from Ponca City High School in 1954 and went on to earn a Bachelor of Animal Science degree from Oklahoma State University in 1958; being very proud to be a team member that ‘won’ the International Livestock Judging contest in 1957.
Dick's life was one of devotion—to family, faith, country, and community. He married his first love, Paula Schmid, in 1957, with whom he built a cherished life. In 1990, he found love again with Dolly Harris Isaacson, his steadfast partner in both home and heart.
His service to the nation included active duty in the Oklahoma National Guard and Army Reserve from 1958 to 1961, earning an honorable discharge. Professionally, Dick worked in Arkansas City, KS at Maurer-Newer for seven years, spent 16 years with Rodeo Meats, and ran Bonfy Farms, a 460-acre ranch, as a dedicated livestock producer. Upon retirement, he found new joy as a gardener at Web Roth’s home garden, where his green thumb continued to thrive.
A man committed to his community, Dick served over 20 years as Cowley County Commissioner, leaving behind a legacy of civic improvements and heartfelt leadership. He was a proud member of the Lutheran Church in Ponca City, Arkansas City, and Winfield.
Dick’s passions were as wide as the prairie sky: gardening, reading, and sharing his produce and stories with friends and neighbors. He was a beloved fixture at the Winfield Fair and local farmers markets, where his blue-ribbon vegetables and warm smile were always welcome. Tales of 4-H days, helping install seatbelts with the JAYCEES, Prairie fest concerts and Dolly’s bold lavender planting project were just a few of the cherished anecdotes he loved to share—with a teasing grin and twinkle in his eye.
He is survived by his beloved wife Dolly Bonfy; sons Paul Bonfy, Dane Bonfy (Oralia), Devon Bonfy (Eva), Joe Isaacson (Chaz), Jason Isaacson (Cynthia); and daughter Allison Isaacson. He adored his 13 grandchildren and was deeply proud of each one.
He is preceded in death by his parents; wife Paula Bonfy; brother Bud Bonfy; sister Wilma Roady; daughter Robyn Bonfy Johnson; and grandson Calder Bonfy.
Dick Bonfy will be remembered not just for the fruits of his labor, but for the kindness, laughter, and stories he sowed in every life he touched.
Memorial services will be held at 10:00 A.M., Friday, July 11, 2025, at Miles Funeral Service in Winfield. Interment will follow at Highland Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to organizations close to Dick’s heart and legacy: Cowley College Endowment, 4-H Cowley County Extension, Southwestern College Endowment. These reflect his enduring dedication to education, agriculture, community service, and care for others.
