Michael Bodnar

Michael Bodnar, 96, of Bull Shoals, Arkansas, passed away on June 6, 2025, in Flippin, Arkansas. He was born on October 9, 1928, in Ruske, Czechoslovakia, to Elias and Anna Hrib Bodnar.

Michael bravely escaped Czechoslovakia in pursuit of a better life and later settled in the United States. He married the love of his life, Lieselotte "Lisa" Manzke, on May 28, 1960, in Chicago, Illinois.

He worked for many years as a service technician in the Boilermaker Industry with Cleaver-Brooks. Known for his ingenuity and hands-on skills, Michael was an inventor at heart, always creating useful items to solve everyday problems. Growing up as a farmer's child instilled in him a lifelong appreciation for nature and the outdoors. He especially enjoyed the peacefulness of fishing on the lake and river and watching birds from his deck. He was a dedicated husband and father, taking care of and loving his family to the end.

Michael is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Lieselotte "Lisa" Bodnar of Bull Shoals, AR; daughter, Angelica Bodnar of Eagan, MN; son, Martin Bodnar of Antioch, IL; granddaughter, April Smith of Novi, MI; sister, Anna Kukurickova; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Jan and Josef Bodnar; and his sister, Maria Fricova.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.