[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 82 (Thursday, May 14, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E446]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 HONORING THE LIFE OF DAVID PAUL BONNER

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. CHRIS PAPPAS

                            of new hampshire

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 14, 2026

  Mr. PAPPAS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Mr. David 
Paul Bonner, who recently passed away at the age of 73. Dave was a 
beloved member of the Concord, New Hampshire community, and he will be 
deeply missed by all who knew him.
  Dave was born and raised in Concord, where he chose to live his 
entire life alongside his wife and closest friend, Paula. Countless 
individuals in the community came to know him over the years, and he 
was known by many as the ``unofficial mayor'' of Concord. He carried 
himself with an infectious personality and a genuine love and care for 
others, paired with a witty spirit and a remarkable gift for 
storytelling.
  Dave was a proud veteran of the United States Army and spent time 
stationed in Germany. He was also a beloved mail carrier for the USPS 
in Concord and worked as a taxi driver, a Hampton Beach nightclub 
bouncer, and a corrections officer over the years. His hard work and 
resilience came from a passionate commitment to serve his community and 
provide for his family.
  Aside from his work, Dave was always passionate about sports and 
proved to be a versatile, multi-sport athlete, trying his hand at 
skiing, football, hockey, and much more. He was a fixture at the Green 
Street Community Center in Concord every Sunday, and was an avid 
basketball player and referee for much of his adulthood. When not 
playing or officiating, he was often in the stands watching games 
ranging from the youth to the collegiate level.
  He also had a genuine passion for the arts, especially theatre and 
music. He frequented the Ogunquit Playhouse for productions in the 
summer and would often listen to music by the likes of Led Zeppelin, 
Jimi Hendrix, and Tom Rush. Much like his strong work ethic and tender 
compassion, his diverse interests endeared him to his many friends and 
loved ones.
  Dave leaves behind his wife, Paula, and their three children, Matt, 
Becky, and Luke. His children shared his passion for sports and were 
incredible athletes and students, earning college scholarships for 
basketball. He also leaves behind seven grandchildren. Those who knew 
Dave understood that he was immensely proud of his family and cherished 
them every day of his life. They shared that same love and affection 
for him.
  On behalf of my constituents in New Hampshire's 1st Congressional 
District, I send my deepest condolences to the Bonner family and all of 
Dave's loved ones. As they grieve their loss, we know that Dave's 
abounding love, passion for sports and the arts, hard work, and service 
to his country and community are an inspiring example for all of us to 
follow. Although he will be dearly missed, his memory lives on in our 
communities through all the people whose lives he touched over the 
years. The stories he told and the memories he shared with those around 
him will endure for many years to come.

                          ____________________