Roger Dean Bonham, 1927-2000

Roger Dean Bonham, well known free-lance writer-editor of Worthington, died Saturday, January 15. Born at Mansfield to Emmett and Marie Bonham, both of whom preceded him in death, Roger was graduated with honors from Bowling Green State University after serving in the U.S. Navy. Roger was a book reviewer for many years and was co-editor with his wife, Jeanne, of the Columbus Dispatch book page and of "Columba: Midwest Review of Books". He and his wife wrote weekly columns in the Disipatch called "Let's Talk Books" and these were collected in a book titled "Some People Would Rather Read Than Eat". His essays, many of which were illustrated with his outstanding photographs, were published in the "Columbus Dispatch Sunday Magazine" and in national magazines. Roger also ghost wrote several books. He was editor of various publications for organizations, such as Ohio Council of Home Care Agencies and Ohio Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics and for Interim Health Care. Before free-lancing, Roger wrote for the Ohio Department of Health and the then Ohio Department of Mental Hygiene and Correction. Besides his wife, Roger is survived by his son, Christopher, a professional impressionist, who kept his father smiling throughout his illness. He is survived by two sisters, Phyllis of Mansfield, and Janet of Columbus; a niece, Mary Lou of Mansfield; and his long-time dearest friend, Ann Urbank; and special friends, Roger Spires and Ed Hoffman. In lieu of flowers, please contribute to Canine Companions at 4989 State Route 37 East, Delaware 43015-9682 and/or Pilot Dogs, 625 W. Town, Columbus 43215 in memory of his beloved collie, Kingswood Tawny. A "Remembering Roger" visiting hour will be held at Rutherford-Corbin Funeral Home, Worthington Chapel, 515 High St., Worthington, on January 22 from 1-2 p.m.