Clara Bonderud

Clara N. Bonderud, 87, passed away peacefully on Sunday, February 20, 2011, in Cleveland, TN. Clarita, as she was affectionately known, was born on July 19, 1923, in Guatemala City, Guatemala. She lived there until marrying Vincent Bonderud, a Pan American pilot, in March, 1947. Clarita and Vincent lived in Brownsville, TX and London, England before settling in Coral Gables, FL, in 1954. She made a wonderful home for Vincent and their seven children in the Gables. There was always extra space for her beautiful extended family from Guatemala, who enriched the Bonderud family household with their regular visits. Clarita loved flowers and enjoyed being active in the Coral Gables Garden Club for years. She was recognized in many ways for her unique accomplishments and contributions including selection to the State of Florida Garden Club Hall of Fame. Clarita worshiped in the Catholic Church and was sustained by her faith to the end. Known as a woman of deep inner strength, marvelous creativity, and a profound capacity for love, she will be missed greatly. She was preceded in death by her husband, Vincent L. Bonderud. Survivors include her sister, Grace Nanne Sanz-Agero, and brother, Francisco Nanne (Marta), both of Guatemala City, Guatemala; children Carolyn (Jim Gwin) of Montgomery, AL, Lucille Headrick of Cleveland, TN, Alan (Marilyn) of Chattanooga, TN, Denis (Lourdes) of Memphis, TN, David (Jana) of Lake Barrington, IL, Philip (David Smith) of Olalla, WA, and Carmen (Pete Dunne) of Davie, FL; thirteen grandchildren and four great grandchildren. A private funeral service will be held in Coral Gables, FL, on March 12. In lieu of flowers, the family requests prayer. Grissom Funeral Home has charge of arrangements. To send an online condolence to the family, please visit www.grissomfh.net