Lonnie Coyd Wolfe, 77, of Bucyrus, passed away on July 20, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love, service and unwavering devotion to the people and country he cherished. Born on July 10, 1949, in Houston, Missouri, Lonnie was the son of Lloyd M. Wolfe and D. Blanche Miller Wolfe. Growing up as one of seven children, he learned early the value of family, loyalty and standing shoulder-to-shoulder with the people you love.
On May 26, 1973, Lonnie married the love of his life, Rebecca Stalder. Their 53 years together were filled with laughter, partnership and a quiet, steady devotion that inspired everyone around them. Together they raised three children — Loni Charlene, Robert Joseph and Terry Keith — who were the pride of Lonnie’s life. He poured his heart into his family, and nothing brought him more joy than watching his children grow into the people he always believed they could be.
Lonnie’s patriotism was not just a part of his story — it was woven into the fabric of who he was. Baptized at a young age in Roubidoux Creek, he carried both faith and duty with him as he graduated from Plato School in 1967 and immediately answered the call to serve his country. He joined the U.S. Navy that August, beginning a journey that shaped him deeply. Lonnie served with honor, humility and fierce pride, later continuing his service in the National Guard until his retirement in 1995. He loved his country, and he loved the men and women he served beside. His stories — told with a sparkle in his eye and a voice full of memory — were reminders of a life lived with courage and purpose.
After retiring from military service, Lonnie found a new calling in teaching auto mechanics at Houston High School. He didn’t just teach a trade — he taught patience, discipline and the satisfaction of doing something with your own two hands. Later, he worked as a bondsman until retiring in 2007 due to health concerns. No matter the job, Lonnie carried himself with integrity and a desire to help others.
Lonnie’s love for the outdoors was a reflection of his spirit — steady, peaceful and full of wonder. He taught hunter education for many years, passing down not just skills but respect for the land. He found joy in fishing, hunting, woodworking with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and gigging with his close friends Gary Cravens and Jim Pokorny. But his greatest happiness came from being surrounded by family. Whether he was carving wood with little hands beside him or sitting quietly with a grandchild on his knee, Lonnie’s heart was fullest when he was with the people he loved.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Lloyd and Blanche Wolfe; his brother, Donald Lloyd Wolfe; his sister, Alma Lea and her husband Ronald Wolf; his brother, Terry Eugene Wolfe; and his parents-in-law, Amil and Mildred Stalder.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Rebecca (Stalder) Wolfe; daughter, Loni (Charlie) and husband Mike; son, Robert (Bob) Wolfe and wife Jessie; son, Terry Wolfe and wife Tricia; and bonus daughter, Melinda Thompson. He is also survived by siblings, Dennis Wolfe (Becky), Darris Wolfe and LoEta Wolfe.
Lonnie leaves behind grandchildren, CJ Moore, Ryan Wolfe and Maggie Wolfe; and great-grandchildren, Colten Moore, Jonathan Wolfe, Ellie Wolfe, Brentley Moore, Mason Moore, Kinslee Wolfe, Lane Moore and Paisleigh Moore. He will also be missed by countless nieces, nephews, extended family members and dear friends.
Lonnie lived a life of service, loyalty and love. He was a man who stood proudly for his country and held his family close. His legacy lives on in every story he told, every lesson he taught and every person who felt the warmth of his presence. His family will forever carry his strength, his laughter and his love in their hearts.
A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, July 27, 2026 at Bradford Funeral Home with Pastor Marcus Kinserlow officiating. Visitation will be held from 10 a.m. until the service time on Monday. Donations in Lonnie’s memory may be made to the Houston Friends of the FFA. Services are under the care of Bradford Funeral Home and online condolences may be left at www.bradfordfuneralhome.net.
