It is with very heavy hearts that the family announces the passing of Bonnie Van der Pluijm, which occurred at the Chaleur Regional Hospital on Saturday, November 8th, 2025. She rested peacefully surrounded by her husband and three children as she took her last breath.
Born in Bathurst New Brunswick, in 1950, Bonnie was the daughter of the late Ian Tower and Lois (McCarthy) Tower.
She leaves behind wonderful memories for her family: her husband Tony, best friend and soul mate of 53 years, her daughter Jodie Lee (Randy) of Bathurst, and her sons Jeff Van der Pluijm (Nina) of Moncton and Paul Van der Pluijm (Sabrina) of Bathurst. Bonnie was a proud Nan to six beautiful grandchildren: Magela Van der Pluijm Smith (Tyler), Madison Lee, Brody Van der Pluijm, Breanna Lee, Kenna Van der Pluijm, and Charleigh Van der Pluijm.
Bonnie also leaves behind her brother Gary Tower (Joanne) of Bathurst, and two sisters: Nancy Tower (Paul Delicaet) of Halifax and Susan Tower-Poitras (Burton Poitras) of Riverview, and she was pre-deceased by an infant sister Ann Elizabeth Tower.
Bonnie’s greatest pride and joy was her family. She loved deeply and often said “the most important thing to me is family, I'm so proud of my kids and grandkids”. Amongst her friends she was known as the social convener. In her younger days, she loved to organized gatherings with the people she loved. Her optimism and kindness touched everyone around her.
From a very young age she contributed to their local family business, Tower Jewellers. She supported the work of the main office and enjoyed attending the gift shows and influencing the buying decisions. Bonnie was always up to speed on the latest trends and fashion. Starting in 2004 she and Tony proudly owned and operated Tower Jewellers until their retirement in 2017, at which time their son Paul took over the business. Bonnie’s keen sense of style and design left a lasting impression on the business and its customers.
Although she had many ailments related to Lupus, she was taken suddenly by an unexpected brain tumour.
Donations in Bonnie’s memory may be made to the Chaleur Regional Hospital Foundation or the First United Church. Arrangements are in the care of Elhatton’s Funeral Home, Bathurst (www.elhatton.com).
Visitation will be at the Elhatton’s Funeral Home from 7 to 9 p.m. Wednesday, November 12th. The funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. on Thursday, November 13th, 2025, at the First United Church, with a reception after the funeral service at the Donald Eddy Memorial Hall, 309 St. Patrick Street, Bathurst.
