Tribute

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our deeply loved Naomi Bonner who passed away on March 4, 2026, in Surrey, BC. Naomi was born on December 1, 1954, to Yoshiharu and Kazuyo Nakatsu in Vancouver, BC. In 1973, she met Tom, on a blind date, and they celebrated their marriage on March 4, 1978. They later welcomed Jennifer and Daniel who filled their lives with love and laughter. Over a fulfilling career of nearly 25 years with the Delta School District, she devoted the majority of her energy and passion at North Delta Senior Secondary School. Naomi was predeceased by her father, Yoshiharu, in 2017. She is survived by her husband Tom; daughter Jennifer (Mike), son Daniel (Ashley); mother Kazuyo; sister Kyoko (Sam), and brother Casey (Edith). Naomi also leaves behind a heartbroken but ever-loving group of relatives, including aunts, cousins, nieces and nephews and countless friends and former colleagues.

Naomi was tiny in size, but her personality was larger than life. She had an impact on each person she interacted with. She was fearless, inspiring, warm, and full of laughter—a vibrant spirit who taught us the power of determination and persistence. She embraced life wholeheartedly, facing every challenge with unwavering resilience and a heart full of love. Her life was defined by the devoting love she shared with her husband, Tom, and the joy of being a mom to Jennifer and Daniel. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Shortly after overcoming breast cancer in 2024, the unthinkable happened. Naomi contracted sepsis which resulted in her becoming a quadruple amputee. She adapted to living with prosthetic hands and feet. Naomi surprised us all with her strength, resilience and positivity. She faced every challenge and adversity head on and never gave up the fight until the very end. Naomi was truly an inspiration to all as was her husband Tom who devoted all his time and energy caring for her.

The family would like to acknowledge and extend our deepest gratitude to the doctors, nurses, care aides and the countless medical personnel at BC Cancer, Surrey Memorial Hospital and Queen’s Park Care Centre for their excellent, kind and compassionate care.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to BC Cancer or to a charity of your choice in memory of Naomi.