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Mark Freund Sonnenschein
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Mark Sonnenschein Obituary
August 8, 1957 - October 2, 2025
Mark Freund Sonnenschein, 68, passed away in his sleep unexpectedly, early in the morning on October 2, 2025 in Midland Michigan. He was born in New York on August 8 1957, and moved to Midland in 1993.
Mark received his PhD in chemistry in 1988 at Georgetown University, and spent more than thirty years in research and development at the Dow Chemical Company. An accomplished scientist, he authored over 50 patents, wrote multiple well received textbooks on polyurethane research, and was honored as a R&D Fellow of the Dow Chemical Company.
Mark was a devoted husband and father. He loved to run, drink coffee, attend Tunes by the Tridge, and play with his dogs. He and the dogs enjoyed sheep herding and protecting the grounds of Currie Golf Course from geese. As his middle name suggests, Mark was truly a friend to many. He often said that 'a friend in need is a friend indeed', and he lived by that mantra. Energetic and curious, he was always asking questions, learning, joking, and staying busy. Thanksgiving was his favorite holiday; he loved cooking the turkey, the Turkey Trot, watching the AKC National Dog Show, and most importantly gathering with family. He will be sorely missed at this year's Thanksgiving and beyond.
Mark is survived by his wife of 42 years, Gerry Franklin Sonnenschein; son, Matthew Sonnenschein; daughter, Susie Sonnenschein; daughter, Annie Sonnenschein (Jerod Parsons); brother, Eric Sonnenschein (Marilyn); nieces and nephews, Kristine Franklin, Ryan Franklin (Stacy), Amanda Sonnenschein; and his three border collies, Bugle, Sprite and Mars.
A celebration of life will take place at 6 p.m. on October 18, 2025 at Smith Miner Funeral Home. Friends may visit with the family from 5 p.m. until the celebration of life. He will be laid to rest at Midland City Cemetery at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Humane Society of Midland County.
Smith Miner Funeral Home is honored to be serving the Sonnenschein family; to share a special memory please visit www.smithminer.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
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