Bonnie Anderson's Tribute Page

Bonnie E. Anderson, 74, of Berkeley Heights, NJ passed away peacefully on Saturday, July 8, 2023 at her home surrounded by her loving family. 

Bonnie was born on November 8, 1948 in Jersey City, NJ. She was the daughter of Dorothy (nee Klein) and Sidney Jackson. Bonnie grew up in Linden, NJ and remained a longtime resident until moving to Berkeley Heights, NJ 16 years ago. She achieved a bachelor’s degree from Kean University and was one of the first women to become an Industrial Electrician in New Jersey. She worked at Exxon in Linden and later earned her instructor certification. Following her employment at Exxon she became a Teacher / School Librarian working in Linden and later the Millburn Middle School until her retirement.

Bonnie was a mesothelioma warrior and a passionate patient advocate. She devoted her time to helping others and became an inspiration to many fighting rare and challenging illnesses. She was well known and respected on Capitol Hill among lawmakers with whom she met often, educating them and pleading for research funding for mesothelioma. For her work, she received several awards, including the Bruce Vento Hope-Builder Award. 

Bonnie was a master gardener, who enjoyed playing the guitar and piano and spending time with her loving family. She had a special place in her heart for horses and rescuing cats.

Bonnie is survived by her loving husband of 55 years, John R. Anderson, her loving daughter, Darciena “Darcy” Christel and her husband, Richard Christel and her cherished granddaughter, Cadence Christel. She was predeceased by her parents.