WLKM Radio 95.9 FM
Gene “Binky” LuRay Bontrager, age 53, of Constantine, passed away on Friday, November 16, 2018 at Borgess Medical Center. Binky was born on March 20, 1965 in Kalamazoo, a son of Jacob and June (Hood) Bontrager.
He attended schools in Beecher City, IL and in Three Rivers, and later received his GED while in the U.S. Army National Guard. He served in the National Guard from 1986-1988.
Binky married Amy Sullivan on September 18, 1999. The two had been friends since the age of 4, when they met in their church nursery.
Binky held many jobs over the years including owning his own painting business named Brushy Boys Painting. Previously, he worked for Sonoco Products, 8th Day Farms, Michiana Agra, and Manufactured Structures. Most notably, he and his wife Amy were foster parents for the Alabama Sheriff’s Youth Ranches where they fostered 32 boys.
He was an avid outdoorsmen, and enjoyed hunting, camping, and fishing.
Surviving are his wife Amy Bontrager of Constantine, father Jacob Bontrager of Constantine, children Adam (Sam) Sult, Thomas (Alicia) Sult, Christopher Sult (Michele Barnebee), and Jessica Norris; grandchildren Brooke, Emma, and Jayce Sult and Lizzy Norris; special ex-daughter-in-law Ashley Swartwood; siblings Crystal (Bil) Bailey of Florida, W.P. Bontrager Harwell of Constantine, Dutch (Nancy) Baker, and Tony Boven; brother-in-law Wayne Simon; 32 foster sons; and numerous nieces, nephews, and in-laws.
He was preceded in death by his mother June Bontrager, sisters Brandi Baird Simon and Kimberly Jo Bontrager, and brother-in-law Don D. Harwell.
Relatives and friends will be received on Monday, November 26 from 6 to 8 PM at Eley Funeral Home, Constantine. A time of sharing will be held at 8PM. Memorial contributions can be given to the funeral home to help the family with expenses. Online messages can be left for the family at www.eleyfuneralhomes.com.
