Sonoran Dies Of Scalding In Home Bathtub

Sylvester J. Bonavia, 66, of Sonora died in a Sonora hospital early this morning after being severely burned yesterday when he fell into a bathtub in his home.

Tuolumne County Sheriff's Deputy Jon Hill said that Bonavia, a double-leg amputee had turned on the hot water in the combination-tub-shower when he slipped and fell in.
Unable to reach the faucet, Bonavia managed to crawl out of the bathtub. He called a taxi, which took him to the Sierra Hospital.He suffered second and third-degree burns over 90 percent of his body.

A native of Sonora, Bonavia was a retired cook. He was a veteran of World War II, member of the Tuolumne Lodge of Odd Fellows for 46 years, past grand herald of the grand lodge of California, and past district deputy. He also Y was a member of the Sierra Rebekah Lodge.

He leaves six sisters, Eliz beth Bonavia, Angelina Castle + and Eva Savateer, all of Sonora, Margaret Jenkins of Jamestown, Mary Purnell of Stockton and Ethel Burgess of Napa and three brothers, Dave of Jamestown and John and Francis Bonavia, both of Sonora.

Rites are pending in the Heuton Memorial Chapel.

The Modesto Bee (Modesto, California) Thursday, August 27, 1970