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Kyle R. Sonnemann
Kyle R. Sonnemann
Obituary
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Kyle Sonnemann Obituary
Kyle was born in Traverse City to John and Bonnie Sonnemann on March 12, 1979. A 1998 graduate of Traverse City Central High School, he then attended Northwestern Michigan College and graduated from Western Michigan University, earning a BA degree in English with a minor in religion. He served as youth pastor at Trinity United Methodist Church in Sebewaing for one year before returning to Traverse City and working as a Special Education Teacher Assistant at West Junior High School.
Kyle had a special gift for working with young people. He looked forward each year to serving as a counselor at Lake Louise and Pentwater United Methodist camps, and was currently a volunteer youth leader at Central United Methodist Church in Traverse City. He was an inspirational role model and motivator who was loved and admired by all whose lives he touched.
Kyle had a passion for movies. In 2006 he was a volunteer worker for the Sundance Film Festival in Park City, Utah, and he served the Traverse City Film Festival as warehouse manager the past two years.
Another passion was writing poetry. A gifted poet with the pen name "Sonny," Kyle enjoyed participating in Poet's Night Out sponsored by the Traverse City Area District Library. His family and friends were the lucky recipients of many of his poems.
Surviving Kyle are his parents, John and Bonnie Sonnemann; sisters, Kristin (David) Sonnemann-Grams, Cara (Jeff Doerr) Sonnemann of Pocatello, Idaho, and Katie Sonnemann; brother, Kevin (Emily) Sonnemann of Minneapolis; nephews, Ben and Bryan Grams; nieces, Zoe Doerr, Ellen Grams, and Lyllie Sonnemann; aunts and uncles, Sue Barr-Burrows and William Burrows, James Sonnemann, Tom and Chris Sonnemann, Carol and Richard DeRemer, and Paul Sonnemann and Gayle LeBon. He is also survived by many cousins and his best friends, Will Havill and Rob (Emily) Palmer. Also special in Kyle's life were his young adult friends at Central and Traverse Bay United Methodist Churches.
Kyle will always be remembered for his gift of humor and his smile. He loved making people happy!
A celebration of Kyle's life will take place at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 9, at Central United Methodist Church in Traverse City. Visitation will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. this evening, Jan. 8, at the church. Kyle will be interred in the columbarium at the church.
Memorial contributions can be sent to Central United Methodist Church in Kyle's name, to be used to support Kyle's favorite interests including: The Central UMC youth group, The State Theatre and Film Festival, West Junior High Memorial Garden, and Poet's Night Out.
The family is being served by The Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home; www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com
This obituary was originally published in the Record-Eagle.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Leah Lane
February 7, 2008
I honestly have no idea what to say.
there are no words that could begin to compare to the person kyle was.
i barely knew him, i mean seriously only spent a few days with him on a few NMC commitment scholarship trips, and he made a huge difference in my life.
may he rest in peace.
Linnea Egan
February 6, 2008
I will never forget the Chicago trip that Kyle went on with the Commitment Scholarship program for NMC. He was definitely a huge highlight of the trip. I only had the privilege to hang out with Kyle a few times but I will certainly never forget him and the way he could make anyone's day better.
He will be greatly missed.
Alia Nurmohamed
January 28, 2008
I first met Kyle at Oak Park Elementary shortly after I moved to Traverse City, and I realized right away what a truly special individual he was. Everyone he came into contact was made a better person by the total joy he found in his life and the entire Sonneman family and friends circle has my sympathy for this great loss.
Nice, nice guy!
January 25, 2008
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Mo Gerhardt
January 19, 2008
I continue to struggle to come up with the right words. All I know is that Kyle taught me at an early age how to smile in the face of a lifelong challenge. Smile-on K.R.S. One day we will be together again and play against Kevin without having to have any special rules!
Steven Cook
January 17, 2008
Sonnemann Family - So very sorry to hear of Kyle's passing. I knew Kyle more as Kristin and Cara's little brother, and remember all the big smiles of love from all of you. My heart is with you at this time.
Bill & Carol Narmore
January 16, 2008
Hi Sorry to hear of the loss of Kyle. Our thoughts are with you and we will remember you in our prayers.
Mary Byl
January 15, 2008
Dear John and Bonnie:
We hope all the wonderful memories you have of Kyle will help ease your sorrow and bring you the strength you need during this difficult journey.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Sincerely,
Mary,Bruce&Jeffrey Byl
Jordan BAtes
January 13, 2008
Sonnemann Family and Friends,
I met Kyle at an NMC theater class. I quickly found that Kyle was one of the funny guys in the class. He was insightful with his comedy, but also with a good spirit and never at someone else's expense. He was the classic nice guy.
It was a pleasure knowing him.
Lorianne Ferry
January 10, 2008
Dear Sonnemann Family- I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your son, brother, loving unlce. My he be at peace with god. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. There really are no words..... Love, Lorianne (Warmbold) Ferry
Mike DeVol
January 10, 2008
Although I did not get to know Kyle on a personal level, I know many people that did. From those people I could see that the little bit of him that I knew was just a small part of the amazing person that he was. I am so sorry to hear of your loss. May God bless you and your family.
Peg May
January 10, 2008
John & Bonnie,
All of the expressions of sympathy in this guest book are beautiful testimonies to Kyle. I can't express the heartache I have for you and your family. May God comfort you and give you strength.
Love, Peg May
Sarah Favara-Decker
January 9, 2008
Mr. Sonnenmann
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this hard time. May your memorys about Kyle bring peace to your hearts.
Gina Lake (Braun)
January 9, 2008
God shows us what we are capable of through people like Kyle. He was truly an inspiration to everyone who knew him. May the God of compassion and strength get you through these difficult times.
Chase Wagner
January 9, 2008
My thoughts and prayers go out to Kyle and his family. As a student at West Junior High, I loved to see Kyle's smiling and loving face every day. He will be missed by everyone that knew him. My one regret is that I only wish that I spent more of my time to get to know him.
Charles and Dee Kelly
January 9, 2008
Dear John, Bonnie and Family,
We wish to extend our deepest sympathies to you on the loss of your son,Kyle. You must have been so proud of him, to accomplish so much while enduring fragile health, We have never lost a child so we cannot say,"We know how you feel" But knowing what good parents you have been for your family makes us grieve along with you. We pray God will comfort you in your sorrow.
Jeni Jewell
January 9, 2008
Dear Sonnemann Family,
I attended Lake Louise with Kyle and friends (Rob and Emily). I know those days inspired me and others to follow Christ wholeheartedly. I can see his smile and hope to pass it on.
Emily Strong
January 9, 2008
Mr. and Mrs. Sonnemann and Family,
I just received word about Kyle and my heart sank. He was a stand-up guy and one that will be missed by all of whom he has touched.I had the honor and privilege to call him friend along with working aside him in Kalamazoo while doing youth group. I will cherish the memories I had with Kyle close to my heart till we meet again. Please accept my deepest sympathies.
Emily M. Strong
Christina
January 9, 2008
I'm so sorry to hear about Kyle. We went to Western together and had many great times hanging out at Wesley. I loved Kyle's sense of humor and his wonderful smile. I will miss him.
Katie Myers
January 9, 2008
To all of the Sonnemanns -
Please accept my heartfelt sympathy on the loss of your son. You are in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Katie Myers
Mark Jensen
January 9, 2008
John and Bonnie,
I met your son while working as a volunteer for the TCFF. He always had a smile to share and could make me laugh! He will truley be missed.
Betty Leuenberger
January 9, 2008
Dear John, Bonnie and family; our deepest sympathy to all of you. i remember the day that Kyle was born, the miracle baby and young man he was. What a treasure and joy to everyone; he touched so many lives. His laughter and spirit of life made him very very special. Think of the joy he is bringing now to all the angels in heaven may all of you find comfort in the fact that God must of needed Kyle more than we. The leuenberger Family Jerry Betty Cameron and Justin
Sue Daniels
January 9, 2008
I was privileged to have known Kyle through several shared interests. I will especially remember my first summer at Wesley, when Kyle would stop in the office almost daily to make sure that things were never dull! His joy in life, love of Christ, & his great desire to help others (especially youth) find that same source of joy has impacted the lives of many - myself included. Prayers of comfort for all who will miss him in this life, & prayers of rejoicing that he is with our Savior!
Kent Wood
January 9, 2008
I worked with Kyle at the Traverse City Film Festival. I am deeply saddened by his passing. He was one of the most positive people I have ever met. His smile was infectious. I will keep him in my heart and try to be more like him. My condolences to his family.
Pam Alfieri
January 9, 2008
Kyle brought joy, laughter, and love to West Junior High! His caring manner, zest for life, and kind spirit were at work on a daily bases with children and staff. We will never forget his smile and glowing personality. As some of the children stated, "He will be waiting for us."
Luci Duperon
January 9, 2008
John, Bonnie Katie & Family,
Our sympathy to all of you at this sad and very difficult time.Hold on to the memories. Kyle will live on inside everyone he met and made an impression on. Please know our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time.
Bob Luci & Ryan Duperon
Lynn Ishikawa
January 8, 2008
Wish I could be with you to celebrate and honor Kyle's life. Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers.
With love and many happy memories ~
Lynn Rasmussen Ishikawa
Leora Izatt
January 8, 2008
It was my great honor to know Kyle through Central United Methodist Church. He was always smiling and happy. My love to you, John and Bonnie, my heart goes out to you.
Marti VanEenenaam-Iwanicki
January 8, 2008
I last saw Kyle as a bubbly, adorable toddler with an amazing toothless smile when he came to school with Daddy and hung out with the Pep Club girls during athletic events. I can see he always had that same disposition. I wish I had gotten to know him as an adult, but I can see how his spirit will always live on. Sonnemann Family, my deepest sympathies and heartfelt prayers.
Amy Tabbert
January 8, 2008
To the Sonnemann family ~ We were so sorry to hear about Kyle's passing. Our oldest son Josh is in 7th grade this year and began youth group with Kyle back in Sept. 2007. Kyle was always, always so nice to Josh and all the rest of the kids. He also made sure to say hello to Josh while walking the halls at West Junior High as well. When I had questions, he always made time to answer an email for me. The youth group will really miss Kyle. He made the world a better place with his short time here with us. Our deepest sympathy goes out to your family and you are all in our prayers. God Bless.
George, Amy, Josh and Ben Tabbert, Interlochen, MI
Ray Stone
January 8, 2008
I knew Kyle from Lake Louise. I am grieving with you. I know that Kyle is running right now and that makes me smile. It is a great comfort to know that we all know where he is for eternity. Praise God for his life short as it was he made a difference.
Phil Johnson
January 8, 2008
Brother Kyle,
I am so glad that I had the opportunity to know you. You will be missed.
Brother Phil
Lisa Bagadia (McCaw)
January 8, 2008
Dear Sonnemann Family,
I am so sorry for your loss and heartbreak.
I knew Kyle as "Kevin's little brother", which is why it's just so incredible to see all of things he accomplished and experienced.
Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you all.
James and Barbara Cato
January 8, 2008
To the Sonnemann family,
We were honored to meet many of you on the occasion of Kevin and Emily's marriage. Your love and nurturing care for each other was evident in many ways. Draw from that strength to find comfort at this time. Our prayers and deepest condolences are with you all.
January 8, 2008
Kyle,
Thank you for the brief time I knew you, what an amazing human being you were. I feel so blessed that I had the opportunity to stand next to one who shines so bright. Enjoy walking amongst the stars....
David Blesh
January 8, 2008
Hah,very good times at youth group you were such a role-model and a leader for everybody at Central United Methodist Church and everybody you were surrounded by. Your personality and smile were lifting
Erin (Pier-Fitzgerald) Racine
January 8, 2008
Kyle was an amazing example of a life well lived. He was a faithful representative of God's love and his witness will continue in the lives of those he touched, mine included. May God's Peace be with you in this time of grief.
Megan Niezgoda ( Hunt)
January 8, 2008
My thoughts and prayers are wtih you and your family in this sad time. Even since grade school, Kyle always was such a delight. His big smile will always be remembered.
Diane and Mike Venn
January 8, 2008
Bonnie, John and Family,
We were saddened to hear of Kyle's death and send our deepest sympathy to the whole family. You are a wonderful family who have and will touch many lives, I'm sure Kyle did the same.
Kelli Edson
January 8, 2008
Sonnemann Family-
I would like to express my deepest condolences for your loss.
I had the privilage of helping out with the youth group this fall with Kyle. He could always make me laugh. His kindness and warmth will always stay with me.
Jessica (Baty) LaFreniere
January 8, 2008
This is such heartbreaking news. I knew Kyle through the Grand Traverse District Youth Council, we weren't that close but my memories of Kyle are only great ones. He left a lasting impression of being such a fun, nice, caring, God-centered guy-what an example to anyone who met him. I haven't seen him since but want his family and friends to know I'm extreemly sorry to hear of the loss! You're all in my prayers!
Steve (Kit) and Cinda Simmons
January 8, 2008
Our words are inadequate, but our love and prayers are constant. We will always remember Kyle's can-do spirit and genuine smile.
Matt and Amy Duwe
January 8, 2008
I am so very sorry to hear of the loss of Kyle. He was such a nice and sweet guy. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you all...
Janice and Fred Linsell
January 8, 2008
Dear Bonnie and John,
We were saddened to hear of Kyle's passing.
We saw often his wonderful influence on the youth at the church and the friendly and giving spirit he shared with us all.
All your family hs our sympathy.
Tara Meadows
January 8, 2008
I knew Kyle from Central. He's in just about every memory I have of the church. Rob Palmer, I remember when you, I, Kyle, and Charlie Hamlin all used to be in the same Sunday school and confirmation classes for many years. It sounds as though Kyle will be greatly missed. Central will not be the same without him.
florina kapitzke
January 8, 2008
Kyle,
As my student, you were a delight. You were hardworking and ever thoughtful of others.
As my colleague, you were respected and loved. You offered your students a shared insight.
As my friend, your poetry touched my heart. It gave me a glimpse of the wonderful man you were becoming. Your encouragement to write meant the world. Your laughter was contagious! Who else will share my love of film? Discuss each movie to the nth degree?
As a fellow Christian, we shared the humor God gave us. (Bobble Head Jesus).
You were a refreshing, genuine example of a man of Christ.
An heir to the throne.
You will remain in my heart, dear one.
Anna Bester
January 8, 2008
I will really miss Mr. Sonnemann a lot because he was funny and smart and helpful to our whole classroom.
Joan Doerr
January 8, 2008
I only had the chance to meet Kyle a couple of times. One of the times was at the Sundance Film Festival in Park City, Utah with his sister, Cara. What a wonderful, enthusiastic, young man. My thoughts and prayers are with your family at this time.
Joan Doerr
Kim & Brad Evans
Shell and Judy Williams
January 8, 2008
Our deepest sympathy goes to your entire family. May the huge smile he always had somehow fill you with hope and warmth at this very difficult time.
Kelly Beck
January 8, 2008
I am so sorry about your loss. I knew him because I went swimming with his class room last year and he was a nice guy, I will miss him so much.
Kelly Beck
January 8, 2008
I am so sorry about your loss. I knew him because I went swimming with his class room and his teacher. I will miss him at swimming. if you need to talk contact me on [email protected] ok
Dan Holmes
January 8, 2008
Sonnemann Family,
I am so very sorry for your loss. Kyle was a friend and a brother to me. He was one of God's special creations. I can honestly say I never, ever heard Kyle say one bad thing about any person. He had a positive approach to life that is rare and admirable. I have so many wonderful memories of Kyle, most of them during our many mission trips. One thing is certain - Kyle will live on inside each person he made an impact on.
Steven Terry
January 8, 2008
John and Bonny: Was so sorry to hear about your loss. Grace and I send our sympathy.
Kelly Arthur
January 8, 2008
Dear Sonnemann Family,
I met Kyle while working together several years ago. We often got in trouble for laughing TOO much. I looked forward to hearing a new joke or humorous story each day. He was truly a joy to know.
My deepest and sincerest condolences for your loss.
Rick Churchill
January 8, 2008
Kyle was a wonderful person. He will be missed. I enjoyed getting to know Kyle at the Wesley Foundation of Kalamazoo. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.
Sally Tramitz
January 8, 2008
I'm so very sorry
Emily Hughes
January 8, 2008
My sympathy and prayers go out to the family. I went to Lake Louise with him and he definitely touched my life in many ways.
Pat Gallagher
January 8, 2008
My deepest sympathy to the Sonnemann family. What a tremendous loss for all of us, especially the students and youngsters he touched. I first knew Kyle when he was in "Godspell" in '97 at Central High School. He was a delight to direct and an inspiration/role model for all so I was thrilled when he joined the staff at WJH. How wonderful to have one of my students become a colleague!
It was my joy to speak with Kyle almost daily (often about theater)and to receive his beautiful smile and gentle words. He touched and enriched my life. Truly a messenger of the Lord, I know he
now sees Him face to face.
Pat Gallagher
Aaron Simmons
January 8, 2008
Kyle,
Ah, the memories of choir at TCHS. You were a great person with an awesome personality and the whole of Traverse City, past and present, mourns your loss.
God bless, and we'll see you on the other side.
Daniel Malseed
January 8, 2008
I'm sorry to hear of your lost. kyle was a great human and a wounderful friend and a fun person to be around. i was glad to know him and be a friend of his.
A Mitchell Creeker
January 8, 2008
He'll be missed by his D building neighbors. He always had a "Hi" and a smile when I'd see him in passing. So sorry for your loss.
Meagan (Warner) Alvarado
January 8, 2008
When thinking of Kyle, I immediately picture his huge smile and it makes my heart smile as well. Thoughts and prayers are with the entire Sonnemann family at this difficult time.
Jenn Hart
January 8, 2008
Kyle was an amazing person. Everyone at West Junior High misses him greatly. He always made me laugh. My thoughts, and prayers are with the family at this time.
Stacey Keegstra
January 8, 2008
I am so sorry to hear that Kyle is no longer with us. Kyle and I knew eachother best in our earlier years of grade school. I will always remember his endless smile and drive to complete tasks that no one though he could.
Jeff Zimmerman
January 8, 2008
I remeber Kyle when he was very young during summers at Camp Warren. He was a determined fighter to get through his heart troubles. I also remember a little person full of life and personality. We are sorry to hear of his passing but consider ourselves lucky to have been able to meet him while he was here. Our prayers are with all of his loved ones.
Clifton Fraley
January 8, 2008
I was so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.
Connie and Tom O'Rourke
January 8, 2008
Tom and I were remembering early days when Kyle and our Erin were both in Ann Arbor. We've all come a long way and experienced many blessings through these years. Our thoughts are with you.
Kay and Dave Walker
January 8, 2008
Dear Sonnemann Family,
You are in our hearts, minds and prayers; may your memories make you laugh and smile, and may you know that many are there for you.
Tim Knapp
January 8, 2008
We are sadden with this news. He will be missed by many. We pray for the family.
I could always have fun when kyle was with me.
Rob Palmer
January 8, 2008
As you know, Kyle was my best friend and will remain in my heart forever. I give my sincerest condolences for your family.
Katie (Williams) Green
January 8, 2008
Kyle always knew how to make people smile. He lit up the room whenever he entered. Kyle, you will be greatly missed!
Mike, Deb, Nick & Scott Rademaker
January 8, 2008
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories of Kyle bring you comfort.
Betsy & Maurie Allen
January 8, 2008
Dear Bonnie, John & Family,
Keeping you close in thought and prayers at this sad time. Kyle was a special gift to all of us.
Love,
Betsy & Maurie
January 8, 2008
Eugene D. Fox ARC board member
Will Havill
January 8, 2008
I want to thank you Kyle for all the moments we had. I could not have asked for a better friend. You will always have a huge place in my heart. I love you buddy.
Robert Beatty
January 8, 2008
Please accept my deepest sympathies.
Emily Palmer
January 8, 2008
John and Bonnie,
Kyle always brought a smile to my face, infact he still does at this very moment. I am greatful to the time I had with him. He had a profound influence in my life and brought such happiness to Rob. I thank him for that and will forever remember him. We both love and miss him.
Peace be with you and your family at this time. If you need anything at all please do not hesitate to call.
With Love,
Roy Farmer
January 8, 2008
I'll Miss ya Kyle, you where a good friend.
Ann & Tom Post
January 8, 2008
Dear John, Bonnie, and Family,
We are so sorry for your loss. We've been honored to know and work with Kyle over the years and his friendly, kind, and caring personality will never be forgotten.
You have our deepest sympathy, prayers, and love,
Shirley Wood
January 8, 2008
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
January 8, 2008
Mr. and Mrs. Sonneman and family,
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Please know that all of you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Thinking of you,
Sara Dennis-Parker
Michelle Reichenbacher
January 8, 2008
Bonnie and family - I don't know what to say with your unexpected loss of Kyle. My heart aches for you - you're in my prayers during this difficult time. Michelle Reichenbacher (ARC Board)
Cheri Undheim (Scott)
January 8, 2008
I remember being in high school and Mr. Sonneman being one of my favorite teachers. I also remember him talking about his kids and how much he loved them. I am so sorry to hear about this and would like you to know that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Rebecca Dobler
January 8, 2008
Even though I haven't seen Kyle since he was a little one at Traverse City Co-op Preschool, I vividly remember what a distinct impact his sweet disposition had upon me and the children with whom he interacted. Even then, it was clear that he was a gentle, loving spirit and his warm, contagious smile communicated what words could not. He melted my heart at every turn and there is no doubt that this world was made a better place by his loving presence. My deepest sympathy to John and Bonnie and all of the people who loved him dearly.
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