Eric Steven Sonne

Eric Steven Sonne, 69, of Catasauqua and State College, died Monday, Nov. 16, and crossed over the rainbow bridge to be greeted by his many beloved pets that went before him. He passed suddenly at Lehigh Valley Hospital-Muhlenberg.

He was the husband of Attorney Frances G. Sonne and celebrated 47 years together this past October.

Born in Springfield, he was a son of the late Lucy Whitford Sonne.

Eric was a manager at Service Tire Truck Center, Bethlehem, for many years before retiring. Before that, he worked at Lehigh Tire and also taught middle school. He was a proud graduate of Penn State University, where he earned a bachelor of science degree in zoology and a teaching certification.

He and Frances were avid Penn State football fans and rarely missed a home game, making good use of their season tickets. He also enjoyed traveling, including many bowl games, and loved nature and animals.

He was predeceased by a sister, Karen, and a nephew, Christian.

Along with his wife, Frances, he is survived by his sisters, Lis Sonne Hoveland and her husband, James, Jane Sonne and Patricia Sonne; nephews, Jonathan and Ian; a niece, Erica; great-nieces and -nephews. He is also survived by his family of cats, Littlest Girl, Mama, Wild Man, Pippi, Tiny Tim and Number 3.

Services will be private due to COVID restrictions. Brubaker Funeral Home Inc., Catasauqua, is handling the arrangements. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.brubakerfuneralhome.com.