Bonifacio “Bonnie” Cleto, age 81, passed away on March 1, 2025. He was born on May 14, 1943, in San Jose City, Philippines, to Nemesio and Martha Cleto.

Bonnie was the beloved husband of Belen for 52 years. Loving father of Bernadette (Tim) Henigan and Stephanie (Matt) Van Kirk. Dear grandfather of Cordelia, Sabrina, and Alexandria.

Bonnie was an outgoing, extroverted man who never met a stranger. He had an incredible gift for conversation and truly loved getting to know people on a deep level. His adventurous spirit led him to join the U.S. Navy, where he proudly served his country and traveled the world. A true patriot, he took great pride in his military service and the opportunities it gave him. His travels helped him develop a love for languages, and he could speak Italian, Spanish, rudimentary Arabic, and several Filipino dialects.

An avid numismatist (amongst many other collections), Bonnie had a special interest in Filipino currency. He also had an exceptional green thumb—able to bring even the most neglected plants back to life. He took pride in his home, where he lived for nearly 35 years, and enjoyed tending to his garden. His dream was to one day live on several acres where he could grow whatever he wanted, free from the confines of suburbia.

Above all, Bonnie was a warm and sensitive man who loved his family deeply, often expressing that love through the food he made for them. He was also a devoted animal lover, with a special place in his heart for the family dog, Lucky, whom he missed greatly after her passing.

Visitation for Bonnie will be held on Friday, March 7th, from 2:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., with a Novena at 7:00 p.m. at McCabe Funeral Home, 31950 W. 12 Mile Rd., Farmington Hills. He will lie in state on Saturday, March 8th, at 1:00 p.m., until the time of his Funeral Mass at 1:30 p.m., at St. Michael Catholic Community, 40501 Hayes Rd., Sterling Heights. Bonnie will be laid to rest on Monday, March 10th, at 9:30 a.m. in Great Lakes National Cemetery, Holly.

His memory will forever be cherished by those who knew and loved him.

Memorial donations in his name can be made to the Alzheimer's Association – Greater Michigan Chapter or the Great Lakes National Cemetery Advisory Council.