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David Ralph Boniello

April 15, 1950 - June 7, 2023
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Soller-Baker Funeral Homes, Inc.
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Kelly Flannery
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Johanna - Steve - Haley Grace Wu
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Elaine Masters
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Ryan and Shana
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Carol and Jim Ruddy
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Christine A Doherty
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Linda and Sean O’Brien
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Carol Ruddy
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Spencer Sorensen
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Loralie Swan
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Sue Dickman
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Service
 Per Dave’s request there will be no services.

David Ralph Boniello PhD, 73, of Lafayette, passed away on Wednesday, June 7, 2023 at IU Health Arnett Hospital in Lafayette, IN. He was born April 15, 1950, in Scranton, PA, to the late Ralph Boniello and Catherine “Kay” (Parlo) Boniello Trovato. Dave received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Scranton, his master’s degreeContinue Reading

Lisa Drayer left a message on March 13, 2024:
I know it’s almost a year later, but when I got a letter saying he was not going to provide services for a while, I was not aware that he was ill. I kept on waiting to hear back from him for he has help me so many times with my family And myself throughout the years. He was the most compassionate person I have ever met. Thank you Dr Boniello for being there for me over the years. You have no idea how much you’ve helped me.
Jamie left a message on July 18, 2023:
My sincere condolences to Dr. B's family and all who knew him. I am saddened to know he is no longer with us in this world. His guidance helped me through some tough times over the last twelve years. I'm forever grateful.
Tommy Bien left a message on June 25, 2023:
David Boniello (Dr. B) was a source of strength for me for several years. He changed my life for the better and I will remember and cherish his kind and gentle being forever.
Nicole left a message on June 20, 2023:
To the family of Dr. B, I am so incredibly saddened to hear of Dr. B’s passing. I had been a client of his for several years at the time of his medical leave and held out hope for his return. He helped my husband and I with marital issues, our child and us with parenting strategies, myself with work, and coping strategies, and living life more fully. He is an absence in my life and is greatly missed. Find some comfort in knowing that his support for me over the years has helped not only myself and my immediate family members, but at least a hundred elementary students as well, and will continue to. My deepest condolences.
spencer h sorensen left a message on June 19, 2023:
Dave and my mother started dating in 1992 and married in 1999. I saw a lot of his struggle with cancer so I'll share my favorite memory of us together and that was in the late 90s. We would go to Purdue football games usually to see other teams play not named Purdue. Then a guy called Drew Brees showed up. He was special from the beginning and I remember chanting with Dave in the stands "Drew Brees Please" during his freshman year and they actually put him in and he immediately threw an interception. Dave and I had an unspoken agreement to abandon games in the 3rd quarter if it was out of control. Beat the traffic. We left early. It was against Michigan State in 97 or 98 and we listened with astonishment on the radio in his Toyota Celica as we drove back home and listened to Drew Brees lead the most insane comeback we never watched because we left too early. We got back to my moms place and turned it to espn and watched the rest. Only he and I have that memory and sadly its just me now. He was a kind man and helped me in so many ways. I'm so sorry I couldn't do more. It happened so fast I didn't have a chance to say goodbye
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
nick griguts left a message on June 17, 2023:
My sincere condolences to Shelley, Spencer, siblings and extended family. May the Peace and Love of Jesus Christ be with you all at this time and always. I am so sorry for your loss. My name is Nick Griguts, I grew up with Dave and his sisters and brother in Scranton. Looking at all the shared memories, I could tell what a beautiful and loved person he was. He was a great kid when we were growing up as friends and neighbors. God bless you all. Nick G.
Susan Horstman left a message on June 16, 2023:
I worked with Dr. Dave at Head Start from 2005-2010 when he discounted his services to visit our students and staff weekly. He helped us identify preschoolers who would need extra services and mediated interpersonal challenges between staff and/or parents who were operating under extreme pressure daily. His soft-spoken demeanor immediately put people at ease. Thank you for your services, Dr. Dave, you will be remembered by many.
Mark left a message on June 16, 2023:
Dr. Boniello helped a lot of people through a lot of hard times. I am one of them. I'll remember him as long as I live. I hope it helps those who lost him to know that he did much more than his share of good in the world.
Kelly Flannery left a message on June 14, 2023:
For Shelley and Spencer, may you find peace during this most difficult time. We love you and are thinking of you often.
Kelly Flannery left a message on June 14, 2023:
What's in a name? For my Uncle Dave, his name symbolized so much about the person he was and the impact that he had upon so many. David is a classic name of Hebrew origin meaning "beloved" and "uncle". Dr. Dave was like an angel here on earth, watching over and guiding his patience, his family and his friends. Always there to listen without judgement, to guide us when we felt loss, and to squeeze us when we needed hugs and kisses. His dark brown eyes connected with your soul and removed any fear, self-doubt or anxiety. His warm and kind smile made everything better. When I was spending time with Uncle Dave, everything and everyone fell away - it was just he and I. Uncle Dave was the sunshine. He was more than an uncle to me, he was my second father. In fact, Uncle Dave nicknamed me, "Kelly Bear", which my family lovingly continues to refer to me as today. I recall sitting on the front porch of my childhood home in Scranton, and listen to the birds, count cars, play Barbie dolls, and singing with. Uncle Dave. Those memories are forever in my heart, and now, will be my most precious. What I wouldn't give to have one more Summer afternoon with Uncle Dave on our porch, and to tell him how much he means to me and how grateful I am for his love, support and kindness. I hear his voice, see his face, and feel his presence whenever I step outside, close my eyes and take in the fresh air. Uncle Dave, I will miss you tremendously, but am comforted in believing that you are in paradise with your adoring parents, Ralph and Catherine, who welcomed you home with open arms. The pride they must have felt watching your many personal and professional accomplishments over the years is surely grand. May you find peace and joy in your resting place and know that you will forever be my beloved uncle, who lives on in my heart and soul always. I am blessed to have had you in my life and am forever grateful for our time together. I love you the sky!
JoAnne Carr left a message on June 14, 2023:
I knew Dr. Dave for over 20 yrs. He was one of the most compassionate humans I have ever know. I will never forget how he helped me survive the loss of my husband 10yrs ago. Goodbye good friend.
Nikki Smallwood left a message on June 14, 2023:
My Uncle Dave was very special. He had so many unique qualities that made him stand out among others. He was kind, thoughtful and compassionate, to name just a few. Growing up, Uncle Dave and I had a sweet bond and connection. I'll never forget our sleepovers when I was little. He would read to me in bed before we fell asleep. He called me "Nikki chick-alotta" and would smile from ear to ear when he addressed me. Even as an adult, he still called me "Nikki chick" and I loved it! I have so many memories throughout my college years talking to Uncle Dave about my major and ultimate profession. He always gave great advice. I was a counseling major and ended up in HR, but it was our love for helping people and listening to others that really connected us. He always took time out to talk to me, to listen, and to give advice when I needed him. He spent hours on the phone with me guiding me though medical options for all of my kids and offering support around every corner. It was most recent that he offered to talk to me over zoom after my daughter suffered from a brain hemorrhage. He comforted me while I cried and I witnessed first hand what a unique, special and sympathetic doctor he was. That zoom call was the last time we spoke, and I wish I told him before we hung up how much he helped me and how special he was to me. I love you Uncle Dave. You will be deeply missed and never forgotten.
ELISA A DUNLEAVY left a message on June 14, 2023:
Carol, Deepest sympathy to you and your family. Elisa Dunleavy
David Flannery left a message on June 12, 2023:
Uncle Dave was a role model and shining star for me to follow throughout my life. When I was a little kid, he modeled the importance of education, and taught me that opportunity was limited only by your own imagination. He took time to walk around Lake Scranton with me, just the two of us, and impart both knowledge and love. When I was a young adult, he taught me the keys to happiness were family and service to others. Success, measured any other way, would be a surefire way to lead to regret. I always tried to copy Uncle Dave’s intellectual curiosity and life long quest for learning. I admired his love and devotion for his family, Shelley and Spencer, and his siblings. Uncle Dave, you will be deeply missed.
Dixie Pederson left a message on June 12, 2023:
My deepest condolences to Shelley, Spenser, his family and all who loved Dave. I am thankful to have known him. Whenever I think of Dave, I remember a quote from Ralph Waldo Emerson that meant a lot to him: Successful is the person who has lived well, laughed often and loved much, who has gained the respect of children, who leaves the world better than they found it, who has never lacked appreciation for the earth's beauty, who never fails to look for the best in others or give the best of themselves. Ralph Waldo Emerson
Louise and Ed Flannery left a message on June 12, 2023:
Dear Shelley and Spenser. There are so many beautiful words spoken about Dave. I am so happy to read the amazing tributes in his honor, as he was all of the same to me. He was so much more than my brother. He will always be a special light in our lives, and he will live in my heart forever. I will miss him dearly. Our sincere condolences are sent to you. Thank you for all of the love and comfort you gave him in his final hours. It is comforting knowing how much you loved him. May you find peace in your beautiful memories together. With all our love. Louise and Ed.
Jane Helton left a message on June 12, 2023:
Dr. Boniello was a tremendous help to our family. His compassion, gentleness, and wisdom guided a young person through a difficult time. We were very sad to read of his passing. The world has lost a beautiful light. We pray for comfort for his family.
Stan left a message on June 11, 2023:
Shelley & Spencer and your extended family, I am sorry for your loss. Over sever years, Dr. Boniello provided a kind of care, as a therapist, that I have rarely experienced and not heard about from others' therapists. He was compassionate and genuine. But, he also had a gift. A gift of insight and flexibility. His toolbox of clinical approaches was full--and the care he provided me was tailored to my needs. And for that I will long remain thankful. Stan
Johanna - Steve - Haley Grace Wu left a message on June 11, 2023:
We will miss David/Dr. Boniello tremendously. He helped us change each of our lives. Thank you, David.
Diane and Eldon Sherwood left a message on June 11, 2023:
Dave had a distinctive and warm voice. A gentle and kind person, he did so much good in his life. He was a wonderful husband to my sister Shelley and I am forever grateful for his loving her all these years. Dave was a caring dad to Spencer, sharing lots of laughs and enjoying many a football game together. God bless Dave for a life well lived. May he rest in peace.
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Elaine Masters left a message on June 11, 2023:
Dear Shelley and Spenser, Please accept my sincere condolences on the passing of (my cousin) David. He was a soft-spoken, kind and gentle person. I will fondly remember him in my thoughts and prayers. May the soul of David rest in peace. ?
Monica left a message on June 11, 2023:
My deepest sympathies to Shelley and the rest of the family.
Ryan and Shana left a message on June 11, 2023:
We are so sorry for your loss. We are sharing in your sadness and praying for you during this difficult time. Our hearts go out to you. Love Ryan & Shana
Carol and Jim Ruddy left a message on June 11, 2023:
Dear Shelley , Wishing you peace during this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and Spencer. We are so greatfull to have you as a sister-in-law and I hope you know how much joy you brought into Dave's life. He will be missed dearly. Love You Always.
Amanda Ruddy Belcastro left a message on June 11, 2023:
We are so saddened to hear about the passing of Uncle Dave. Your beloved husband was a cherished family member and his guidance and support was invaluable to us over the years. In reading these messages, it's obvious his impact extended far beyond our family, and his loss will be felt by many others who had the privilege of knowing him. Please accept our heartfelt condolences during this difficult time. ?
Christine A Doherty left a message on June 11, 2023:
My deepest sympathy goes out to Dr. David R. Boniello's family, Shelly and their son. David will never be forgotten. Rest in Peace my dearest cousin. ??❤️?❤️??
Christine A Doherty left a message on June 11, 2023:
I wish to extend my sincere condolences to Dr. David R. Boniello's family. This is a sad time for all. David is my 1st cousin and we grew up together. He was a kind and gentle person. We spent many years hanging out together. He was always a joy to be around. Again, my sincere condolences to his wife Shelly and their son. I will always love you "Big Dave". God bless you. Rest in Peace ❤️?❤️
Linda and Sean O’Brien left a message on June 11, 2023:
Dearest Shelley and Spencer, We are sending our deepest condolences to both of you. I (Linda) have the fondest memories of David. He was a kind and gentle cousin and he will be missed by everyone who knew and loved him. With deepest sympathy and love Linda and Sean?
Carol Ruddy left a message on June 11, 2023:
In memory of David Ralph Boniello, Carol Ruddy lit a candle
Tom Trueb left a message on June 11, 2023:
Shelly and Spencer, so sorry to learn of your loss. The time we've lost contact has become immense and we survivors are becoming rare, but you're often in my thoughts.
Spencer Sorensen left a message on June 11, 2023:
I am here only to be truly helpful. I am here to represent Him Who sent me. I do not have to worry about what to say or what to do, because He Who sent me will direct me.
Kim Youngblood left a message on June 11, 2023:
Words can not express my deepest sympathies to his family, especially Shelley and his son. He was exceptional, dedicated, and compassionate in his field. May God ??? wrap his arms around each of you and comfort you during this time I pray.
Donna Highland left a message on June 10, 2023:
My sincere condolences to the family. Dave was a source of strength for so many. Prayers for peace and comfort.
Loralie Swan left a message on June 10, 2023:
My prayers and sincere condolences go to Dr. Boniello’s family. He was so calming, insightful, and truly cared about his patients. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him. He touched so many lives over the years.
Dana Allison Sherwood left a message on June 10, 2023:
Shelley and Spencer, You're in my thoughts and prayers at this time. I know Dave will be deeply missed by you and family.
Judd Danby left a message on June 10, 2023:
My deepest condolences to David’s family and loved ones for your loss. I greatly valued his wisdom, guidance, passion for helping others, and his support through difficult times. I will miss all that he gave me in our conversations, including his wonderful sense of humor.
Sue Dickman left a message on June 10, 2023:
In memory of David Ralph Boniello, Sue Dickman lit a candle
Sue Dickman left a message on June 10, 2023:
My sympathy to the family as you lost a great man. Words can not express how I feel about his passing. What a brillant and amazing man we have lost. He impacted my life so much over the years and helped me tremendously. Life is going to be so different without his wisdom and guidance.
Diane Wetzel left a message on June 10, 2023:
David brought light into the lives of my entire family. He was our trusted guide through various tribulations and we deeply appreciated his dedication and compassion. Our community was made richer by his presence and he will be sorely missed.
Karl Vauter left a message on June 10, 2023:
I knew Dave as a friend and fellow lab assistant at the University of Scranton. Dave was honest, funny, introspective, analytical and in all, a solid man of faith. I am honored to have known Dave. My condolences to his family.
Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.
Nadine & Francis Lucas left a message on June 10, 2023:
There are no words to express how heartsick Frank & I are at this terrible loss. Our prayers are with you Shelley & Spencer. Love always, Nadine & Frank
Michael Trovato left a message on June 9, 2023:
The best brother and person I could have ever had the great fortune to know. I'll miss you every day.
Carolyn Foust left a message on June 9, 2023:
Dr Boniello was a great and wonderful man and an outstanding Dr!!! He was so kind and loved God with all his heart! He will never be forgotten!!! Carolyn Foust
Missy Galbreth left a message on June 9, 2023:
Shelley, I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Sincerely, Missy Galbreth
Sarah Knowles left a message on June 9, 2023:
To Dr. Boniello's family, please know he was a remarkable and compassionate therapist. He was my Godsend through many trials and tribulations in life, as well as my son's. I owe him so much more than just gratitude and will be forever thankful to have had his expertise, guidance, and compassion for 20+ yrs. He was truly a guiding light in my darkest times. My deepest condolences, thoughts, and prayers to all of you. Thank you for sharing his gift.
Soller-Baker Funeral Homes, Inc. left a message:
Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.
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