SONJA BRUUN MITCHELL

(1939 - 2025) Sonja Mitchell (née Clayton) started life in Cheshire, England, where she enjoyed Sea Rangers, Girl Guides and hiking in Lyme Park. She attended a boarding school in Wales, but after leaving school at 17, her family did not support her interest in going to university. She could, however, attend a domestic science college in Manchester, after which she moved to London to work in catering for British Rail. She made friends with the painter, Jonathan Turner, who introduced her to other artists and their works. She also studied German, and in 1963 moved to Germany for three years working as a nanny. On a trip back to England for her brother's wedding in 1965, Sonja met Keith. The two married in August 1966 and immediately sailed for Canada, settling into a new life in Vancouver where her children, Adrian and Karen, were born. Feeling a need for a wider life, Sonja studied Accounting and Finance at UBC. This was followed by completing a professional designation in accounting, and an intellectually fulfilling 27-year career in the Federal Public Service. During retirement, Sonja enjoyed volunteering at the Vancouver Opera, as well as gardening and going for long walks. In early 2020, Sonja and Keith moved to Toronto to be closer to Adrian and Karen, their spouses, Bruce and Traci, and grandchildren, Carly and David. Sonja was diagnosed with terminal gallbladder and liver cancer early in 2025. She died peacefully at home, on New Year's Eve, surrounded by her loving family, as she had hoped. Sonja's quick wit, creativity and sense of adventure will be greatly missed. One of her last decisions was to will her body for research and education at the University of Toronto. The family is very grateful for the care she received from Dr. Keith Johnstone. Donations in memory of Sonja are encouraged to the Dorothy Ley Hospice, or others providing palliative care for cancer patients. A Celebration of Sonja's Life will be held in the Spring.