Stephen G. Bono Obituary in Rockland at Magoun-Biggins

Obituaries

Stephen G. Bono

Passed 06/24/2022

Obituary For Stephen G. Bono

Stephen Gregory Bono, Sr. entered Heaven on Friday, June 24th, 2022 at the age of 67 after a brief battle with lymphoma.

Steve was the adored husband of Maureen Ann (Partridge), beloved father of Stephen G. Bono, Jr. (Cathleen) of Franklin, MA and Christine M. Bono of Cincinnati, OH; grandfather of and best friend to Gregory W. Bono of Franklin, MA; and loving brother of Catherine Rawley (Dennis) and Mark G. Bono (Elaine). Steve was predeceased by his parents, Frank G. and Lorraine C. Bono. He is also survived by many cousins, brothers - and sisters- in-law, several nieces and nephews, and countless friends. Steve grew up in Rockland, MA and graduated from Rockland High School with the Class of 1972. After graduation, he worked as a woodworker at the E. Norris Brown Company, finishing as a foreman at the R.R. Scheibe Company. His motto was, "You always use the right tool for the job," and chances were he had it.

Steve's favorite thing in life was his family - he loved being Maureen's "Lovie," Steve and Christine's Dad, Cathleen's Father-in-Law, and most of all, "Peepaw" to his grandson Greg. Peepaw and Greg spent many hours discussing players, trades, and playoff chances of just about any team and sport. They often traded trivia questions via text trying to stump each other, and played countless hours of video games.

Steve became a basketball official in 1986 and joined the International Association Approved Basketball Officials (IAABO) Board 54, where he served as Vice-President & 2nd Vice-President as well as a member of the executive board for many years.

Steve went on to hold positions on the boards of various other referee associations. He was a founding member as well as president of the Eastern Massachusetts Basketball Official's Association. He also was a referee, assistant coach and past president of the Whitman Junior Pro Basketball League, a referee for the South Shore Youth Basketball League and was an official for more than 25 years for the NCAA Division III.

Another favorite pastime of Steve's was umpiring for the Eastern Massachusetts High School Softball Umpire's Association. He had been enjoying that for the past 9 years.

After retiring, Steve ran an online sports memorabilia and trading card business. He truly enjoyed assisting people who were in search of a specific, hard to find sports item. He loved the Boston sports teams. Whether at their best or at their worst, he always had faith in them. He could often be heard doing his "armchair quarterbacking".

Steve enjoyed his golf outings and occasional golf weekends in Cooperstown, NY and Poland Springs, ME, with his brother and "the guys".

Steve's other main group of fun friends were affectionately known as "The PZ's." Many hours and weekend getaways were spent over the years with this group of guys who were mainly composed of basketball officials, coaches, and fans enjoying each other's company and sharing tales about life on and off the court.

Steve loved riding his Harley, whether it was a trip to Damien's, a road trip to NC, or a ride with Maureen.

Steve will be remembered for his endless sports knowledge, quick wit, enjoyment of a good joke or limerick, uncanny ability to recognize faces, and his loyalty to his family and friends.

In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests that you consider making a donation to the Lymphoma and Leukemia Society of America.

Steve’s family invites friends and loved ones to celebrate his life from 4:00-7:00 PM on Thursday June 30, 2022 in the Magoun-Biggins Funeral Home. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated in the Holy Family Church in Rockland at 9:00 AM on Friday July 1, 2022.

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Condolences

07/03/2022

Fred Climo

Maureen Condolences from the Climo family. We are very sorry for your loss. I spent a lot of time with Steve in our school years at Rockland and enjoyed many laughs and good times. He was a sincere and loyal friend and a true Rockland Bulldog. The times playing basketball and the stupid stuff we got into are fond memories. He was an important member of the 1972 state basketball championship team and a great teammate. RIP Steve you will definitely be missed! Fred & Betty Climo
06/30/2022

Steve Owen

Hi Maureen Jane and I are so sorry for your loss. We can't believe how fast he passed away since being afflicted. Just shows how fragile life really is. IM sure he knew the Lord and is enjoying the crowns that are promised to those of us who believe 😊 Steve was a key member of the class of 72 state champs. An unsound hero. That was Steve. God bless the Bono family. Please Give the Bono family the comfort and peace that only you can provide. Amen Steve and Jane Owen
06/30/2022

Roger Saraiva

Maureen, Steve Jr. and rest of Bono family. I was so saddened to hear of Steve's passing. We worked so many basketball games together over the years and he was always a professional & a great partner to work with.
06/30/2022

Edward Farrell

Steve, so sorry to hear of your passing. As I sit here thinking of how to put my thoughts into words I constantly think of all the great memories we had together on the basketball courts. I remember how we met at south shore sports center and the original crew we formed with you, me, Dan, Bob O'Shea,Mike Sullivan,Ed Wallace,Walter Lerch. I will always treasure the times we spent together reliving events that we had over the years doing different levels of games.Always thought it was funny that 2 guys from different ends of state met at some mens league game in Higham and found out we graduated hs same year and became such good freinds. I will miss you dearly my freind, best to Maureen, Steve jr, Christine and rest of your family during this difficult time,Eddie Farrell
06/29/2022

David audet

Dear Bono Family, My sincere condolences to you and your loved ones. I had the pleasure of officiating basketball with Steve, and it was always a pleasure seeing his name as a partner. He was a tremendous official, but more importantly, a great guy. I'm sure I speak for my fellow officials, he will be truly missed. David Audet
06/28/2022

Brian Devine

So sorry to hear about the passing of Steve and sending condolences to the Bono family. I had the pleasure of working several games with Steve and he had a great way about making you feel comfortable and supported both on and off the court, he was a great partner. His love for his family was evident in our conversations. Sincerely, Brian Devine
06/28/2022

Pete C

Condolences on your loss. Steve was such a great friend to so many people. Over the years, Steve counseled me, and I am sure many others, numerous times about the often crazy world of officiating. He never failed to offer sage advice and you always went away feeling better about whatever had been troubling you. Big loss for the officiating community. Rest in peace Steve. You will be greatly missed. - Pete C
06/28/2022

Richard Grealish

Deepest sympathies for your loss. Great man, great example for all of us. May he rest in peace. Rich G
06/28/2022

Lisa & Larry Riley

Maureen & Family - Please accept our deep condolences. We are very saddened about the passing of Steve. Always a smile and pleasure to be with. Sending much love-hugs and healing prayers-Love Lisa & Larry Riley
06/27/2022

Bonnie Goodale

Thinking of you all. We send you love and prayers during this time. Bonnie and Charlie
06/27/2022

Michele M

My deepest sympathies extended to you & your family. I only knew of Steve through the loving stories shared my dear co-worker & friend, Steve's sister Cathy. 🙏
06/27/2022

Joseph Rocha

Maureen, Steve, Jr and family, Steve was a good friend and official.. It was my honor to know him and work with him. Words can not describe how sorry I am for your loss. My condolences to your entire family. Steve is officiating a game in heaven today. Joe Rocha
06/27/2022

Cheryle Keith

So very sorry Maureen & family 🙏 Cheryle Keith