Donald “Don” Donnie” C. Sonnentag
Donald “Don” “Donnie” C. Sonnentag, 86, passed away Monday, April 13, 2020, at his home in Cadott.
Donald was born July 27, 1933, in Cadott, the son of Wilfred and Lorraine (Martinson) Sonnentag.
He married Carol Jean Etten at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church in Cadott, June 29, 1954, where they raised their family and farmed.
Dad/Grandpa/Don/Donnie/GPA lived by the seasons – seasons to hunt: deer, ducks, geese, squirrels and rabbits. He had a passion that was taught and shared with so many others.
A season to fish: OK, so this was one continuous season for him. The wind direction, weather and instincts always led him to the best fishing spots.
A season to play: cards, dancing, softball, shooting pool and throwing horseshoes. We all know games were not “play” for him, it was serious and winning was the only option. He especially loved to dance and went dancing every chance he had.
A season to work: milking cows, baling hay, picking up rocks, sawing logs, gathering sap and “making wood.” All these things were hard work, but we did it all together, as a family, creating bonds that will last a lifetime and be passed to future generations.
A season to give: fish (fried, pickled, smoked), fruit (strawberries, blackberries, blueberries, raspberries, cranberries, apples and the best homemade apple cider ever!), tomatoes, peppers, head cheese and bacon. He was always busy with each of the fruits of the season, and did not hesitate to share with friends and family.
A season to teach: persistence, courage and strength. Dad taught us to be strong, never give up and to be quick with a hug when learning life’s lessons were difficult.
Don was a loving husband, father, father-in-law, grandpa, great-grandpa and friend. He was blessed and very proud of his 18 grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren He will be greatly missed! He passed along to his children a strong work ethic, a passion for the outdoors, the love of card playing and dancing.
We know the dance halls are playing all the polka music you love and the lakes are abundant with fish to catch. Until we meet again. We should not grieve in his passing, but celebrate his life.
He is survived by his children – Barbara Twitchell, Maple Grove, Minn., Nancy Friederich, Bloomer, Dean (Karen) Sonnentag, Cadott, Jim (Debbie) Sonnentag, Bentonville, Ariz., Lori (Keith) Tietz, Chippewa Falls, Peggy (Brent) Schuebel, Boyd, Tina (Jimmy) Ferguson, Chippewa Falls, and Erin Hanratty (Jay Mulloy), Cudahy; his brother – George Sonnentag, Milwaukee; very special friend – Judy Gindt, Boyd; grandchildren – Jamie (Amy) Friederich, Chippewa Falls, Jennifer Friederich, Bloomington, Minn., Sarah A.J. Friederich, Eau Claire, Travis Sonnentag, Alma, Shannon Sonnentag, Osseo, Audrey Sonnentag, Chippewa Falls, Sean Sonnentag, Roberts, Heather Reeves, Rogers, Ariz., Jordan (Bailie) Sonnentag, Lowell, Ariz., Jessica Sonnentag, Dallas, Texas, Hunter Sonnentag, Kyle Tietz, Eau Claire, Michaela Tietz, Chippewa Falls, Sam Tietz, Ashley VanBeck, South Milwaukee, Andrew (Courtney) Sonnentag, Chippewa Falls, and Aly and Karley Ferguson; greatgrandchildren – Aaralyn Sonnentag, Emilu Keyeski, Emery Reeves, Savannah Sonnentag and Morgan, Olivia, Aiden, Liam and Lillian Schroeder.
He was preceded in death and welcomed into heaven by his loving wife – Carol; son – Bobby (in infancy); parents – Wilfred and Lorraine Sonnentag; brothers – Ray and Bill Sonnentag; son-in-law – Dennis Friederich; and greatgrandchild – Greggory Reeves. A memorial visitation will be at Leiser Funeral Home in Cadott, Friday, July 31, from 10 a.m., until the time of the service. A service of Christian burial will begin at noon, with Deacon Ned Willkom officiating. Interment will be in the Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery in Edson, after the service.
Because of the health and safety for everyone who may attend the services, social distancing, minimal contact and face coverings are strongly recommended.
