Sonja Alice VanWey

1941 - 2023

A joyful soul, Sonja Alice Van Wey passed away 12/19/23 in Yuma, AZ, at the age of 82. Born 8/5/41 in Sedro Woolley, WA, she lived in Everett WA and retired to sunny Yuma, AZ.

Sonja was predeceased by her parents, Otto G/Eunice Nelson, brother William, and siblings-in-law Judi, Dennis, Betty; and by Isaac Neil's siblings Verna and Waynea; and former spouse Dale Van Wey.

Twice widowed, Sonja suffered the deaths of her husband of 31 yrs. John Harold Cushman, and her beloved Isaac Neil Lowe.

Surviving their mother are John W/Shari Cushman, Mary Jane/Robert Schaal, and Philip/Erin Lowe; her grandchildren John H, Monette, Casey, Doniell, Garrett, Aidan, Sean, J. Bean, Kelli, and Joel; and her great-grandchildren Zachary, Emma, John M, Ezra, and Donald. Sonja's remaining siblings-in-law are William/Joann, Ronald/Kathy, Sherri, Shelly, Helen, A. Lorraine/William, Carol, and Ruth/Richard. Sonja is also survived by her friend since birth, Verna Bridge Blackburn Pederson/Robert Pederson.

Her family and friends will henceforth live with a Sonja-shaped hole in our hearts.

A dedicated student and prized employee, Sonja was a first-generation high school and college graduate. She was in the Everett HS class of 1959; and her associate degree was in sewing machine mechanics. She worked in costume design and then, as a secretary for a bank officer.

Sonja was a fearless adventurer! Why take the direct path when we could go on the scenic route? Her curiosity and sense of wonder, bravery, and determination served her well.

She celebrated each birthday, holiday, and event with those she loved. As sweet as it was, her enthusiasm made her stand out in a crowd. She rang a cowbell while cheering at kids' sporting events and graduations.

Sonja was musical, playing clarinet in the Everett HS marching band, accordion at family sing-ins, and the ukelele. She harmonized with a lovely alto voice. And she loved to dance! (She met John at a sock hop and Isaac Neil, waltzing.)

Generally upbeat, Sonja held difficult feelings close, shared privately with her confidants. Then, filled with empathy, she encouraged others, especially widows and caregivers for the terribly ill.

Sonja's living faith in God led her though life, from start to finish. Her soul resounded with hymns of praise, particularly "When the Saints Go Marching In." More than just her ringtone, Sonja has joined the heavenly procession.

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*Celebrations of Life will occur at 10 AM Saturday, 1/20/24 at Country Roads RV Village, 5707 E 32nd St, Yuma, AZ 85365 in the Adobe Rm, and at 1 PM on Sunday, 2/18/24 at Kerns Funeral Home, 1122 S 3rd St, Mt Vernon, WA 98273.

*In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to Hospice of Yuma or American Cancer Society