Bonnie Lou (Saum) Kemle

Bonnie Lou Kemle, 90, of Crestline passed peacefully with her loving family by her side on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, at Mill Creek Nursing Home.

Bonnie was born in Prospect, on October 12, 1935, to the late Ronald and Okle (Gekler) Saum. On November 18, 1956, she would marry Martin "Marty" Kemle, and he would proceed her in death on May 28, 2016.

A proud 1953 graduate of Crestline High School, Bonnie devoted much of her life to serving others in her hometown. Following in the footsteps of her father-who helped spearhead the establishment of emergency medical services in Crestline-Bonnie became one of the community's first EMTs and served part-time with the Crestline Fire Department.

Bonnie also dedicated many years to the Crestline schools, where she worked as an aide and became a familiar and comforting presence to generations of students. She found joy in helping young people and was proud to play even a small role in their growth and success.

Outside of her work, Bonnie loved the simple pleasures of life. She enjoyed crafting, cooking, and spending time with the people who meant the most to her. Her personality was as memorable as her kindness-when asked how she was doing, Bonnie would often reply with a grin that she was "fat and sassy" or "ugly as ever," a reflection of her humor and ability to keep those around her smiling.

Above all else, Bonnie's life revolved around her family. She was a devoted mother and a loving grandmother who took great pride in her children and grandchildren. Her love extended far beyond her immediate family, embracing many nieces and nephews as her own, and at times helping to raise and guide them with the same care and devotion she gave her own children.

Bonnie's memories will be cherished by her children: Vicki (Marvin) Lash, Kathi Corbin, Fred Kemle, and Barb Kemle-Nelson; grandchildren: Bonnie Kemle, Miranda Lash, Heather (Joey) Davis, Desiree (Mike) Griefenstine, Rob Nelson, Mallory Lash, and Samantha (Joe) Borders; as well as 10 great-grandchildren.

In addition to her parents and husband, Bonnie was preceded in death by her siblings: Celestine Stewart, Maudine Hunt, Permelia Bower, and Ronald Saum.

Friends may call on Monday, March 16, 2026, from 11:00am to 1:00pm, at Gompf Funeral Service - Crestline Chapel; 223 W. Main St., Crestline. The funeral service will begin immediately following at 1:00pm, with Rev. Jenny Whitmore officiating. Following the service, burial will take place at Greenlawn Cemetery in Crestline.

Memorial contributions can be made to First United Methodist Church of Crestline, or The Crestline Fire Dept.

Those wishing to share a memory of Bonnie or send condolences to the Kemle family may do so by visiting www.masfh.com.

The Gompf Funeral Service - Crestline Chapel, 223 W. Main Street, Crestline is honored to serve the family of Bonnie Lou Kemle.

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