Bonnie Lou Hazel Bishop-Babcock, age 80 of Sherwood, Wisconsin, passed away on Wednesday, April 2, 2025, at Ascension St. Elizabeth hospital in Appleton, Wisconsin. She was born on September 16, 1944, in Sherwood to the late Riley and Luella (Block) Bishop. She loved hosting tea parties and celebrating holidays with her grandchildren, creating cherished memories filled with warmth and joy. She was a country western entertainer her entire life, and most recently worked for Ornua Foods.

She started her singing career performing at local fairs and went on to perform across the Midwest with her band, Bonnie Lou Bishop and the Ramblers. She moved to Nashville, Tennessee in the early 1990s where she performed alongside many talented musicians and entertainers. Bonnie Lou won the 1992 Grand National Yodeling Championship and had the honor of performing at the Grand Ole Opry. She was best known for her rendition of Patsy Montana’s song “I Want to Be a Cowboy Sweetheart”, which was always the highlight of her performances. A proud voting member of the Country Music Association (CMA) since 2000, Bonnie Lou was recently honored at the CMA’s “In Memoriam” segment during the 2025 Triple Play Awards on April 29, 2025, recognizing her lasting contributions to country music.

She is survived by her children: Becky (James) Stelter and Travis Babcock, grandchildren; Sheridan Stelter and Riley Stelter. She is further survived by her sister Beverly Boesch, sister-in-law, Arlene Bishop, as well as many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Bonnie Lou is preceded in death by her parents, Riley Bishop and Luella (Block) Bishop, sister, June Everett, brother, Russell (Alice) Bishop, brother-in-law, Arthur Boesch.

Bonnie Lou loved performing and will be remembered not only for her incredible talent and contributions to country music, but also for the joy, grace, and heart she brought to every stage she stood on.

A private family burial will take place at Riverside Cemetery, Appleton, Wisconsin.

Bonnie Lou’s family would like to thank the providers, nurses, and staff at Ascension St. Elizabeth Hospital for the loving care and compassion that was shown to both Bonnie Lou and her family.