Bonnie Biggar had a deep love for music and art, which she generously shared with her community. She was a gifted musician with an impressive history of participating in community music groups. Music was not her only passion, however. Bonnie led an adventurous life and pursued a wide range of interests.
After earning her elementary teaching degree and art minor from Western Michigan University in 1960, Bonnie’s adventure began. She married the love of her life on December 30th, 1960 – John “Jack” Biggar, whom she met while they both worked at their college’s food service. The newlywed couple moved to Higgins Lake after Jack graduated. They welcomed their children, John Biggar and Tammy Schwalm, into the world; and down the road joyfully welcomed grandchildren as well. Bonnie enjoyed a long life with Jack traveling coast to coast, camping and visiting lighthouses.
Creativity came naturally to Bonnie. Thoughtfully crafted cards, quilts, doll clothes, costumes, and clothing to share with family and friends was a fulfilling pastime for her that brightened the days of many. Bonnie’s dedication to creating beautiful things also extended to her musical talent. She served many years as the Children’s Choir and Christmas concert pianist for Roscommon Elementary School, where she also taught as a substitute. Other groups Bonnie graced with her musical abilities include the local Mikenauk Chorale – who she performed with at Carnegie Hall – as well as Sweet Adeline’s Barbershop Choir. Her résumé as a musician is outstanding, but perhaps her most remarkable accomplishment was serving as the organist of St. Elizabeth Episcopal Church for nearly 60 years.
To honor Bonnie’s memory, the Bonnie Biggar Music Fund was recently established at the Roscommon County Community Foundation. This fund will support the K-12 music programs at Roscommon Area Public Schools, ensuring that Bonnie’s love for music will continue to inspire and enrich the lives of generations to come.
Bonnie’s spirit lives on through the many lives she touched, the music she created, and the beauty she brought into the world. She will always be remembered with love and admiration.
If you would like to contribute to the newly established fund in memory of Bonnie, click here, select educational funds, and select the Bonnie Biggar Music Fund.
