Bonnie M. Kirchhofer, age 88, of South Haven, died Monday, Aug. 3, 2026, at Meeker Memorial Hospital in Litchfield.
M e m o r i a l services will be at 11 a.m. Friday, Aug. 14, at Kimball United Methodist Church with visitation one hour prior to the service. Pastor Cyndy Spear will officiate.
Bonnie Mae Leppa was born on April 21, 1938, in Minneapolis, Minn., to Heino and Lillian (Ecker) Leppa. Following her graduation from Roosevelt High School in 1956, she earned her degree in education from St. Cloud State University, embarking on a fulfilling career that would leave an indelible mark on the lives of countless students. Bonnie began her teaching journey at Minnetonka, where she spent three years before dedicating 30 years to the Luverne School District, teaching second grade. Bonnie retired in 2003, leaving behind a legacy of love for learning.
Bonnie met James E. Kirchhofer (Jim) in 1963 through the young adults group at Hennepin Ave United Methodist Church in Minneapolis.
They were united in marriage on July 11, 1964, at United Church of Christ in Minneapolis.
Bonnie and Jim raised their three children, Thomas (Tom), Jane, and Jonathan (Jon) while living in Luverne, Minn., creating a home filled with warmth and laughter. In 2005, they embraced new adventures, relocating to the serene surroundings of Lake Francis, where they continued to build lasting memories together.
Bonnie was a devoted member of Kimball United Methodist Church, where her faith was a guiding force throughout her life. She was actively involved in P.E.O. and United Methodist Women, forming lasting friendships through service and fellowship. Bonnie found great joy in spending time with her family, who were at the center of her life. She was an avid quilter, entering several award-winning quilts in the Minnesota State Fair. She also loved tending her vegetable and flower gardens, participating in annual mission trips to Louisiana, and enjoying the peace and beauty of life on the lake.
She is survived by her husband of 62 years, Jim of South Haven; children, Tom Kirchhofer of North Branch, Jane Kirchhofer (Doug Hennessee) of St. Paul, and Jon Kirchhofer of Minneapolis; three grandchildren, Linus, Lillian, and Arabella; siblings, Larry Leppa of Ashburn, Virginia, Nancy Weir of Woodbury, and Carol Leppa (Connie Miller) of Seattle; and nieces, nephews, other family members and friends. Bonnie was preceded in death by her parents; beloved aunt Maymie Ecker; and sisters-in-law Josh Leppa and Nancy Kirchhofer.
Bonnie’s family will serve as urn bearers. Arrangements are entrusted to Dingmann Funeral Care Burial and Cremation Services of Kimball.
Obituary, Guestbook, Video Tribute and Funeral Webcast online at www.dingmannfuneral.com
