William Sonner

No wonder he's been on my mind lately. He was such a great instructor and friend to me during my time at NCSU, '67-'71. Dang it, I should have gone to visit him and say thanks. He sure enjoyed a good laugh. I recall his VW bug had a sticker saying something about not opening the windows over 100 mph. He was so patient with kids who were terrified of the water. Back then you had to swim over and back to be able to graduate. There would be students in their last semester, trying and trying,...

As a student at State, coach was involved in two of my "favorite" memories...one in passing intermediate swimming, I had to pass a process called "drown proofing". I cheated in the process, did not admit it and Coach put me back into the pool for another extended period of suffering. You did not mention it, but Coach was an outstanding handball player and ...so was I. Undefeated, Coach decided it was time that I learned a little humility. He was a bit cocky and told the class that if I beat...

Privilege is something I think about often. When I saw my former Swim Coach's obituary in the N&O today, it reminded me (again) what a fortunate and privileged life I have led. How many kids get to have a 2-time ACC Champion, Olympic Qualifier, Rhode Island and North Carolina Swimming Hall of Fame member and NCSU PE Director as their Swim Coach? Not many. I thank my Dad for knowing him. Coach Sonner was a tough and demanding teacher (and yes, he was a former Marine...with a flat top) but he...

Condolences to the Sonner family. Billy, your dad was like an action hero, strong and just. Rest in Peace Coach Sonner.
Jimmy Seay

He was wonderful! This is Susannah Stewart, Jack's youngest. I think the last time I saw Bill, Dad and I had gone to the faculty club to join him for a Thanksgiving lunch. He and Dad seemed to share a very special bond.

Susannah

In memory - and in celebration -
of someone who made the world a better and brighter place. You'll always hold a special place in my heart. Rest in peace sweet man.

Dear Dr. Jill & family- In loving memory of a wonderful person. I treasure the days I had with Bill Sonner at Morningside of Raleigh. A very special person who touched so many lives. Keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers. Mrs. Darlene Nelson, Hospitality Director Morningside of Raleigh

Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Many years with many great memories. Especially with my sons. You will certainly be missed and always remembered.
Rest in peace,
Michael & Lisa Gagliano