In Loving Memory of Blake Robert Bonar

Blake Robert Bonar, age 14, passed away in his sleep on September 14, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, brilliance, and creativity that touched everyone who knew him. Though Blake faced physical challenges and was non-verbal, he communicated with a depth and clarity that amazed those around him. His ability to express complex thoughts through creative means was nothing short of extraordinary.

Blake was a kind and radiant soul, deeply loved by his family, friends, caregivers, and school community. He found joy in cooking, swimming, watching videos, listening to music, and traveling with his family—especially to Florida, Fripp Island, South Carolina, and Europe, where he loved eating pasta in Rome. He cherished his siblings and spending time with those who cared for him.

Blake was a proud student of the Phoenix School of Discovery, where he formed lasting friendships and was embraced by a strong support network of friends, teachers, support staff, and therapists. Blake also attended and was loved at Middletown Elementary, Summit Academy, and Heuser Hearing & Language Institute.

Blake is survived by his loving parents, Christy Ames and Rob Bonar; his sisters, Brooke and Kate Bonar; Matthew Robertson who Blake considered his brother; his grandparents, John and Janet Ames and Sandee and Bruce Bonar; and a large extended family of aunts, uncles, and cousins: Caroline, Greg, Sam, Eli, and Jack Summa; John, Anna, Abby, Austin Ames; Jeff, Jessica, Alex, Andy, Alli, Amber Ames; Justina, Justin, Sam, Stella, and Lillian Powers; Ben, Whitney, Chloe, and Carson Bonar.

Blake’s life will be celebrated with visitation on Wednesday, September 17, from 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Highlands Funeral Home in Louisville, KY, and a funeral service on Thursday, September 18 at noon at St. Albert the Great Catholic Church. In honor of Blake’s favorite color, guests are encouraged to wear red to both the visitation and funeral.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to:

Genetic (ARID1B)/Autism Research at the University of Louisville Medical School – https://louisville.edu/give (please mark “Other” and note “In memory of Blake Bonar”)

Phenom Park Fundraiser at Phoenix School of Discovery – https://phoenixsod.givebacks.com/shop

Blake’s family extends heartfelt thanks to his countless caregivers and therapists, whose love, dedication, and support enriched his life immeasurably. You were his champions, and he loved you all deeply.

Blake’s light will continue to shine through the lives he touched and the love he inspired.