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Charles W. Sonntag died in his home Thursday, July 27, 2006 at the age of 80. A resident of Albuquerque since 1965, Charles was known and loved by many generations. Wherever he went, he touched people's heart with the twinkle in his eye, an ever-present smile, the warmth of his hug, and a heart overflowing with God's love for everyone he met. Born November 5, 1925 in Clinton, OK, Charles was raised on a farm, but his love for people soon took him to other adventures. He completed a Master's Degree and became a teacher for the Bureau of Indian Affairs, retiring after more than 30 years. Although a man of small stature, Charles had a giant character and a heart for serving others. He was a devoted husband, father, community activist, leader, and mentor within numerous organizations to include: West Mesa Little League, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, Lions Club, New Mexico Athletic Association High School Baseball and Softball, City of Albuquerque Parks and Recreation Softball, American Softball Association, National Association of Softball Officials, DeMolay, Rainbow, The Order of Eastern Star, Ancient Free and Accepted Masons, NM State Grand Lodge, The Order of the White Shrine, Amaranth, Ballut Abyad Shriners, First United Methodist Church, Los Volcanes Senior Citizen Center, and AARP 55 Alive Driver Safety Course teacher. He was known by many different names and titles: dad, grandpa, little-pa, brother, Charlie, Shorty, Chas, umpire, teacher, Dad Sonntag, Worthy Grand Patron, and Worshipful Master, to name a few. Pre-deceased by his wife of 44 years, Jo Ann Sonntag, who died in 1989, Charles Sonntag is survived by: a son, Charles Leon Sonntag, Santa Fe, NM; a daughter, Lois J. Wickam and her husband, Dan; grandson, Nathan Bonnett, Springfield, MO; a son, Larry C. Sonntag and his wife, Carla; grandsons, Alan and Daniel Sonntag, Albuquerque, NM; a brother, L.C. Sonntag, Austin, TX; a sister, Mary Cordial, Aeia, HI; a sister, Elsie Palmera, Martinez, CA; and a sister, Marjorie Pigg and her husband, Don Pigg, Altus, OK. A Memorial Ceremony will be conducted at First United Methodist Church, 314 Lead SW, at 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, August 2, 2006. In lieu of flowers, the family has asked for prayers and suggests that donations be made in memory of Charles Sonntag to any of the organizations listed above.
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