Bonnie Joan Cruickshank

Bonnie Joan Cruickshank (Needham) was the first of four children born to Harold and Joan Needham in Sacramento, California on October 20, 1947. Bonnie graduated from Highlands High School in North Highlands and Sacramento State where she proudly earned her B.A. in Home Economics and her teaching credential. “Mrs. C.” taught her entire 39-year career at Charles Brown Elementary School in El Dorado, mostly Kindergarten, with a few years in 1st grade in the beginning and 2nd grade at the end. In her own words “I feel like I have made a difference and that is what I wanted to do.” She touched many young lives in El Dorado County and, in her last years, many of her former students or their family members were involved in her care. A true full circle moment for her.

She gracefully fought her battle with Parkinson’s to her final “exhale” on April 27, 2025 in Placerville, California at the age of 77 with family by her side. Survived by her loving husband of 54 years, William (Bill) Cruickshank, Jr.; children Amanda (Brian), Tom (Amy), and Katie (Kile); and grandchildren, Creighton, Abigail, Alexander, Natalie, and Matthew. Left to carry on the Needham Legacy, siblings Sherri (John), Patti (Lanny), and Kent (Cindy); along with nieces and nephews, Troy (Camille), Amber (Dave), Jamie (Paul), Sara (Jacob), Kim (Josh), Jenny (Jeff), and Emily (Ryan). Also survived by Sasek family members, Liz, Cathy (Bill), Susan, Danny, Ryan, Laura, and Michael.

Preceded in death by her beloved family members: parents Joan & Harold Needham, parent-in-laws Anne & William Cruickshank, Sr., and cousin-in-law Joseph Sasek.

Our entire family sends a heartfelt thank you to the staff at Sunshine Manor in Placerville, the team at Suncrest Hospice, and Dr. Samuel Ceridon for their loving care in the last part of her journey.

Celebration of life services will be held on Saturday, May 17, 2025 at 10:30 am, East Lawn Memorial Park Chapel, 4300 Folsom Blvd, Sacramento, CA 95819. In lieu of flowers, please donate to your local elementary school or local library in her name.