Bonnye Lear was a dedicated and cherished member of the Disneyland family who tragically passed away on June 7, 2024, after an accident at the theme park. Her sudden loss has left an immense void in the hearts of her family, colleagues, and the thousands of guests she impacted throughout her career. As a Senior Guest Services Manager at Club 33, Bonnye played an integral role in maintaining the high standards of Disneyland’s exclusive dining club. Her kindness, dedication, and passion for her work will always be remembered.
Bonnye Lear dedicated over 24 years of her life to Disneyland, earning a reputation as one of the most compassionate and hardworking cast members at the resort. She worked in various roles throughout her tenure, ultimately serving as a Senior Guest Services Manager at Club 33 in New Orleans Square.
Club 33, known for its exclusivity and luxury, is a private dining club that has been a part of Disneyland since 1967. It is famous for its prestigious membership and impeccable service. Bonnye was a key figure in ensuring that Club 33 upheld its reputation, always going above and beyond to create memorable experiences for guests. Her warm demeanor and commitment to excellence made her a favorite among colleagues and visitors alike.
On June 5, 2024, tragedy struck when Bonnye Lear suffered a severe accident while on duty. She was riding in a golf cart in a backstage area of Disneyland when she fell, sustaining a critical head injury. Despite being rushed to the hospital, she succumbed to her injuries two days later on June 7, 2024.
According to reports, Bonnye was seated in a rear-facing position when the cart hit an uneven surface, causing her to lose balance. Witnesses noted that she tried to grab the handrail, but it failed to support her, leading to the fall. The incident has since prompted an internal investigation by Disneyland and the Anaheim Police Department.
The news of Bonnye Lear’s passing has deeply affected the Disneyland community. Ken Potrock, President of Disneyland Resort, released a heartfelt statement expressing his condolences:
“We are heartbroken by the loss of Bonnye. She was an incredible person and a valued member of our Disneyland family. Our thoughts are with her family and loved ones during this difficult time.”
Her colleagues and friends have also shared their grief, remembering Bonnye as kind, hardworking, and full of life. Many cast members have described her as a mentor and a source of positivity within the park. One colleague stated:
“Bonnye had the ability to brighten anyone’s day. She always had a smile on her face and genuinely cared about making magic for guests.”
Bonnye’s passing has highlighted the strong bond within the Disneyland cast member community. Many of her co-workers and friends have come together to honor her memory through tributes and fundraising efforts. A GoFundMe campaign was created to support her family with funeral expenses, legal matters, and other unforeseen costs. The overwhelming response from the public reflects the deep impact she had on so many lives.
Disneyland cast members have also begun organizing memorial gatherings and private tributes within the park. These efforts aim to celebrate Bonnye’s contributions and ensure that her legacy is never forgotten.
In light of this tragic accident, questions have been raised about safety measures in Disneyland’s backstage areas. Golf carts are commonly used for transportation behind the scenes, and this incident has prompted a review of protocols to prevent similar accidents in the future.
Disneyland has expressed its commitment to improving safety, ensuring that cast members have a secure working environment. Some potential measures being discussed include:
Bonnye Lear’s legacy extends beyond her role at Disneyland. She was a mother, a friend, and an inspiration to those who knew her. Her ability to bring joy to others and her unwavering dedication to Disneyland will be remembered for years to come.
Her family and friends have expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support they have received. While the loss is immeasurable, the love and memories shared by those who knew Bonnye continue to keep her spirit alive.
In honor of Bonnye, cast members and guests alike are encouraged to:
Bonnye’s warmth and dedication will never be forgotten. She leaves behind a lasting impact on Disneyland and all who had the privilege of knowing her.
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