bituary

Ann Bonnell is Captain and Mrs. Bonnell's great-grand daughter>

"Capt. Mark H. Bonnell Dies at Murray River

The death occurred at his home in Murray River early this morning, after two weeks illness of Capt. Mark H. Bonnell, at the age of 85 years. Born in Newfoundland, the late Capt. Bonnell came to this province with his parents who settled in Murray River, and when only eleven years of age started his sea-faring career, his father was a deep sea captain. The late Captain made numerous voyages from island ports to St. Pierre, Newfoundland and other ports with produce cargoes, and was known to be honest and upright in all his dealings. During the course of the First World War his ship was constantly in demand.

He retired about twenty-three years ago.

He leaves to mourn his passing a son, Harry, with Frank B. Clark, produce dealer and a daughter Mary (Mrs. J. Liby), Portland, Me. His wife (Margaret MacDonald, Little Sands) predeceased him about sixteen years ago. About ten years ago, he married Sadie MacAusland who survives. He also leaves eight grandchildren, four of whom are in the service.

He took a keen and active interest in politics and was elected as a Liberal Councillor for 4th Kings in a by-election held on August 30, 1922. The by-election caused by the death of the former representative William Sutherland. Capt. Bonnell was nominated again for the general election of 1923 but was defeated when the Conservatives swept the province electing 26 members to the Liberal's four." (from newspaper clipping in possession of great-granddaughter)

"Capt M.H. Bonnell The death occurred at Murray River on March 22nd, 1945 of Capt. M.H. Bonnell. A native of Newfoundland, Captain Bonnell followed the life of the sea for 45 years. Upon his retirement in 1923 he lived in Murray River. At the age of 14 he became Ordinary Seaman on the "Olive Blonde". He soon became Able Seaman and finally received his Master's Certificate at Halifax, N.S. in September 1891.

He carried cargoes to and from the Island and sailed to all ports of the world. He at one time was Representative for the Murray Harbour district in the local House. He advanced step by step in the Order of the FreeMasons until he reached the Ancient Arabic Order of the Mystic Shrine. Since his retirement he engaged in shipping, farming, and in beautifying of his home. He was a member of the Church of England, but upon his retirement he joined the Presbyterian Church at Murray River and later the United Church.

He was twice married. His first marriage was to Margaret MacDonald, Little Sands. Of this marriage, two children survive: Harry Bonnell, Whim Road, and Mrs. J. Libby, Portland, Maine. His second marriage was to Sarah MacAusland, Charlottetown. His widow survives him.

Funeral services were held from his late residence on Saturday afternoon, March 24th and were conducted by his pastor, Rev. Roy Vessey. The service conducted by the Masons was led by Mr. Ewart Keeping. The pallbearers were George Lowe, Philip Lowe, Percy White, Fred Brehaut, Walter Buell and Art Gosbee.

Interment was in Little Sands Cemetery.

A large number of Beautiful flowers were placed in loving memory of the departed."(Evening Patriot Sept 25, 1945)

"BONNELL - Passed peacefully away at Murray River, Friday morning, March 8th, Mrs. Capt. M.H. Bonnell (nee Margaret MacDonald). Funeral service will be held in the home at 1 o'clcock Sunday, March 10, thence to Little Sands Cemetery."(EP March 9, 1929)

"The death of Mrs. M.H. Bonnell has caused a gloom over the village of Murray River and surroundings. Although she was not in the best of health for many years, she could attend to her household duties until six weeks ago when she was confined to bed. Mrs. Bonnell was a splendid type of womanhood, a good wife and companion, a kind mother, and a charitable neighbour, and she is now enjoying her eternal reward in the kingdom of Heaven. By her good example, she leaves a splendid record for the present generation to follow. The funeral service was held at the home at 1:30 p.m. Sunday March 10th and was conducted by her pastor, Rev. Mr. Smart and assisted by Rev. Mr. Williams. Interment was in Little Sands Cemetery. The floral tributes were beautiful. The pallbearers were Colin Hector MacNeill, Sibbauld MacNeill, Alexander MacGregor, Maxwell Fraser, Ira D. Munn and Norman MacPherson."(Evening Patriot March 20, 1929)