NICHOLAS F. “NICK” BONO II

December 9, 1932 – October 20, 2026

Nicholas F. “Nick” Bono II, beloved patriarch of the Bono family, a respected Kansas City businessman, United States Army veteran, devoted Catholic, passed away peacefully at his home in Leawood, Kansas, on October 20, 2026, at the age of 93.

Throughout his life, Nick was known for his strong character, dedication to his family, commitment to his faith, and willingness to help others. A man of conviction and determination, he earned the respect of those who knew him through his actions, his work ethic, and his devotion to the people and principles he valued.

Born December 9, 1932, to Nicholas and Josephine Bono, Nick grew up in Kansas City, Missouri. He graduated from Bishop Hogan High School in 1949 and attended Quincy College on a football scholarship, earning his bachelor’s degree in 1953.

While attending Quincy, Nick met Marguerite “Marge” Bartunek, who would become his wife and lifelong companion. Following their marriage, Nick served honorably on active duty in the United States Army, attaining the rank of Specialist Third Class. He and Marge were stationed in Germany, where they traveled extensively throughout Europe, beginning a lifetime of shared experiences and memories.

Upon returning to the United States, Nick worked in sales before joining Abbey-Simons Company in 1968, a Kansas City business established in 1939 by Marvin and Retha Simons. Through years of dedication and hard work, he advanced within the company and ultimately became its owner. His sons, Michael and Nicholas III, later joined the business, which continued under the leadership of his sons and grandson, representing three generations of the Bono family. His professional accomplishments reflected decades of dedication, perseverance, and commitment to his work.

In the early 1970s, Nick purchased a farm that became a cherished retreat for both him and his family. It was a place where generations gathered to fish, ride tractors, roast hot dogs over the old brick firepit, and enjoy the simple pleasures of being together. Nick took great satisfaction in working the land, planting and harvesting fruits and vegetables, and sharing his love of the outdoors with his children and grandchildren. The farm became the setting for countless family gatherings, and reflected a part of Nick’s life that brought him particular happiness.

An avid golfer, Nick looked forward to his weekly rounds with a close-knit group of friends affectionately known as his “cronies.” Their time together was as much about friendship, good-natured teasing, practical jokes, and friendly wagers as it was about golf. One of his proudest moments on the course came in April 2006, when he recorded a hole-in-one. His playful competitive spirit extended well beyond the golf course. A framed collection of one- and five-dollar bills, won through friendly bets with his children, grandchildren, and anyone willing to challenge him, still hangs in his television room—a fitting reminder of his humor and the pleasure he took in a little friendly competition.

When golf season ended, Nick enjoyed hunting with his brother Bud, his two sons, and other family members. Quail and pheasant brought home from those outings often found their way to the family dinner table, prepared by Nick himself. Yet whether he was golfing, hunting, fishing, or tending his farm, his enjoyment of the outdoors extended well beyond the activities themselves. He appreciated the fresh air, the changing seasons, the variety of wildlife, and the quiet satisfaction of cultivating the land. For Nick, nature offered both recreation and a deeper appreciation of God’s creation—its beauty, abundance, and the many blessings it provided. It was an appreciation he carried throughout his life and took particular pleasure in sharing with his family.

Nick’s Catholic faith remained an important part of his life. His commitment to the Church and his community extended beyond personal devotion. A longtime parishioner of St. Thomas More Catholic Church in Kansas City, he served on the Parish Council and participated in numerous parish ministries over the years.

Nick was also instrumental in fundraising for and helping build Church of the Nativity of Nativity in Leawood, KS. He supported St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Parish, served on numerous community boards, and supported pro-life organizations, including Vitae. His contributions reflected his willingness to put his resources and abilities to work in service of others.

Nick was nominated and inducted as a Knight of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulcher of Jerusalem, a Catholic order dedicated to supporting the Church and Christian communities in the Holy Land.

Above all, Nick was devoted to his family. Together, Nick and Marge raised four children, instilling in them the importance of faith, family, responsibility, and service.

Affectionately known as “Papa Nick” and “Mimi,” Nick and Marge took great pride in their large, close-knit family. Frequent gatherings, celebrations, and traditions brought generations of the Bono family together.

Nick was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Marge; his parents, Nicholas and Josephine Bono; and his brothers Louis (Bud), Frank, and Jack Bono.

He is survived by his brother, USA retired Lieutenant Colonel Richard N. Bono, United States Air Force; his four children, Nicholas F. Bono III (Amy), Janet A. Adkins (Michael “Kipp”), Teresa Maher (Jim), and Michael F. Bono; 17 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

His legacy lives on through his family, and the many lives he touched throughout 93 years. He was truly one of kind and will be missed.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Parish, 14251 Nall Avenue, Leawood, KS 6623 on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. Visitation will be held at 9:30 a.m. followed by the Rosary at 10:30 a.m. Inurnment will follow at Resurrection Cemetery, 8300 Quivira Rd., Lenexa, KS.