Frank Sonsalla

Frank George Sonsalla, 97, of Arcadia, died Thursday, August 1, 2024 at Grandview Care Center in Blair with family holding his hand. Frank was born on September 7, 1926 to George and Clara (Giemza) Sonsalla. Growing up on the family farm, Frank developed a strong work ethic and a passion for carpentry. Early in life he ventured to the Dakotas to work as farm help before returning to Arcadia, where he married the love of his love, Bernadine Suchla, on June 27, 1949, at St. Stanislaus Catholic Church.

Frank helped maintain farm equipment, delivered fuel and drove for ORC up until retirement. Frank was blessed with many talents. He was a talented carpenter and was very knowledgeable in many trades. He was blessed with the patience for teaching those talents to his children.

He was blessed with a gift for music. Frank could play various instruments by ear, including the violin, guitar, piano, violuke accordion, and harmonica. Alongside his wife, Frank recorded two songs showcasing their musical harmony that were recorded by Ernie Reck.

Frank also lent his time to the Arcadia Fire Department and served as an EMT in his younger years.

Frank loved spending time with family whether that be working right by their side or a project of theirs or teaching them something he knew how to do. He along with his wife loved to go for Sunday car rides and may have even found a casino or two along the way. He loved to play cards and would always manage to lose while you always won. He loved the outdoors and had a love of horses for he told his family many stories about his horse Jim.

Frank will be missed by his children, Shirley Weisenberger, Renee (Duane) Suchla, Dale (Anne) Sonsalla, and Francis (Brenda) Sonsalla; 13 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; and 10 great-great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Bernadine; son-in-law, George Weisenberger; parents and siblings.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 2 p.m., Wednesday, August 7, 2024 at Holy Family Parish with Reverend Kyle Laylan officiating. Frank will be laid to rest in St. Stanislaus Catholic Cemetery. To leave an online condolence for his family, please visit www.wozneykillianfh@gmail.com.