Bonnie Kay Schulte, age 73, of Brookings, SD, passed away peacefully on October 4, 2025, after a long health battle. Memorial Services have been set 1:30pm Monday, October 13, 2025 at Peace Lutheran Church, Brookings, SD. Memorial Visitation will be 1 hour prior to the services at Peace Lutheran Church, Brookings, SD. Rude’s Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.
Bonnie Kay Heimlich was born July 15, 1952, in Huron, SD, to Richard and Lavonne (Holt) Heimlich. Bonnie grew up in Huron and graduated from Huron High School in 1970. She completed her nursing degree at St. John School of Nursing in Huron in 1973.
She met her high school sweetheart, Robert H. Schulte, and they were married in 1973. Though they later divorced, they remained connected through their daughters Nicole (Tony) Brower of Volga, SD, and Melissa “Mel” Schulte of Sioux Falls, SD.
Bonnie’s life took her around the country, living in Biloxi, MS; Kansas City; Belleville, IL; Minneapolis, MN; Rapid City, SD; and eventually settling in Brookings. She volunteered as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) and with the Brookings Summer Arts Festival and Peace Lutheran Daycare.
Family was the center of Bonnie’s world. She was a proud and devoted mother and grandmother. Her greatest joy was her grandson, Aidan Brower, and she relocated to be closer to him after his birth. She loved watching him grow and was proud of the man he’s become.
Bonnie was known for her bright smile, sharp humor, and incredibly generous heart. A true friend and caregiver, she put everyone else first and left a lasting impression on everyone she met. She was the neighborhood grandma, the life of every party, and a comforting presence in every room.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Richard and Lavonne Heimlich; brother-in-law Randy Greenway; sister-in-law Rita Schulte; and best friend Patrice Solyntjes.
Bonnie is survived by daughters Nicole (Tony) Brower and Melissa Schulte; grandson Aidan Brower and his girlfriend Emily Knoll; and sisters Bobbie Greenway, Billie Howell, and Beckie Jungemann.
Condolences may be sent to the family through www.rudesfuneralhome.com.
