Lauretta H. Bonfiglio, 92, passed away peacefully on January 23, 2020 in the bed she was born in, in the house father built. Lauretta was born to Lauretta and George Hardisty on September 14, 1927 in Butte, MT.
Lauretta was born an artist. She studied at Redland’s University in California where she won a scholarship to work with the all the famous Mexican artists of the time, including Diego Rivera, David Siqueiros, and Frida Kahlo. During this time, she met her husband, Eugene N. Bonfiglio, and together they had 5 beautiful children.
Lauretta went on to live her life full of art and beauty, while raising her family. She returned to the United States to continue her long and beautiful career in art, which left an immense legacy to her children, grandchildren, and her community. She retired in Butte in 1990, where she spent the rest of her days, and did what she loved best. She will be deeply missed and always remembered.
Please see below to offer the family a condolence or to share a memory of Lauretta. Axelson Funeral and Cremation Services has been privileged to care for Lauretta and her family.
Service Schedule
Services are pending at this time or no services will be held. If available, please see obituary for more information.
Service Schedule
Services are pending at this time or no services will be held. If available, please see obituary for more information.
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Liliana says
Dear Lauretta, Eugene and Julian,
I’m deeply sorry for your loss. I can not imagine how difficult it’s this time for you guys, I love ❤️ Loretta and she will be deeply missed!
Jennie Melvin says
To the Bonfiglio Family,
Mrs Bonfiglio was my art teacher at Annapolis Sr High, in Annapolis MD back in 1981. I do not remember but a handful of my teachers names, but hers stands out as one of them. I remember her fondly as being a kind, compassionate teacher, and truly talented artist. My condolences to you all.
Karen (Darden) Jacob says
This just popped up on my Facebook feed. I am so sorry to hear about Mrs. Bonfiglio. I had her for art classes at Annapolis Senior High when the school first moved to Riva Road (I graduatedin 1981). She taught me ceramics and art history. She introduced me to French Impressionism and when I was in Paris I chose to visit the Musee d’Orsay to see Degas, Monet, Manet, Renoir, etc. I have thought about her and have mentioned her to art teachers I have met along the way. I am a middle school educator (mid-life job change). I am sorry to hear of your loss. I am sure she lived a colorful life. Thank you to her family for sharing her with us during her time at AHS.
Kimberly Decker says
My deepest condolences to the entire Bonfiglio family. She was a wonderful influence on many artists while at Annapolis High School, including myself. I was privileged to attend her classes .
Janine french says
Sending healing light and hugs to all who loved her🌈 especially her children who all hold a special place in my heart 💜
Anna Tirschman says
Deeply saddened to hear of her loss, but what an amazing and happy life she had. She was my art teacher, and I was her aide for 3 years until I graduated in 1975.
She would have me take her VW bus to wait in the gas lines for her, during the gas shortage. She was a huge influence in my life and I will never forget her. RIP Ms. Bonfiglio
John Abruzzo says
I , too, had took Mrs. Bonfiglio art class at Annapolis Sr High. She was a wonderful person and a great talent. I am sorry sorry to hear of her passing.
Susan (Hagedorn) Bastas says
What a free and creative soul she was. I remember her fondly as a true rebel, in the era of peace and love.
Nancy (Finkle) Klein says
She was a wonderful teacher who encouraged free expression and helped her students understand the power of art. I am so sorry for your loss.
Stephanie says
I am sad. She inspired me to create and born 5 beautiful people who are still my friends. I was married to the oldest brother, Chris way back when. I love Lauretta. I love everyone in her family!
John Harrison says
I worked with Lauretta at Annapolis High and recall her creativity, exuberance for life and chilled demeanor. I’m sure her loved ones will comfort one another with shared recollections of all the good memories made with Louretta.
Annie Lockie-Brooks says
Lauretta was a wonderful art teacher. ( I can hear her laugh as I write this!) I went to Mexico and visited Taxco saw her mural and studied Diego Rivera and Freda Kalo…She inspired me! In 1973!!!
Sarah De Money says
I just learned of Lauretta’s passing. I knew her from Butte as she would come to my water exercise class (Julian joined her a few times). We spoke about life, family, traveling. My husband is an artist and they would talk and laugh at the Main Stope Gallery. She was my bright spot of the week. Many warm memories is my wish for her family. – Sarah De Money, Butte
Sarah Sullivan says
I will miss visiting with Lauretta at the market and at the Main Stope. I loved hearing her speak of Diego Rivera and Frida Kalo. She always encouraged our conversing in Spanish despite my lack of fluency. I will treasure the memory of our friendship. My sincerest condolences to her family.
Lemuel Taylor says
I had Lauretta for art in 1972. I believe her first year at Annapolis. We had some altercations in that class among students. She didn’t like altercations at all. She was laid back to say the least. These problems were not going away. The specifics are not important. I for one needed that class to graduate. We had a nice conversation in which she said to me Lem how bout I give you a C for the rest of the year if you could abstain from my class . I said thanks I appreciate your kindness I never went back. I don’t think Annapolis High was ready for her. She was kind and a peaceful soul She cared about people and everybody getting along.
Chris Buchheister says
Ms Bon inspired us all!!
Annapolis High art classes ‘79-‘81.
Just thinking about her May 2024- googled her and saw she moved passed.
Remember her stories of driving the jeep(?) while her x-husband shot jack rabbits in Mexico.
Great teacher – mentor and inspiration to live a good life—my condolences to Gene and her daughters .
As you can see I still think about her!!
Peace, Chris Buchheister