Sondra Baer

Sondra Zoe Baer passed away peacefully on November 14, 2025, at the age of 92 in Westland, Michigan. Born on January 9, 1933 in Platteville, Wisconsin, to the late Charles and Helen Stephens, Sondra's life was a testament to her unwavering spirit and her dedication to her family, faith, and community.
A proud graduate of Winona Senior High School in 1951, Sondra furthered her education at Winona State University, where she earned a Bachelor's degree in primary education in 1955. It was in that same year she married her beloved husband, the late Robert Baer, on June 25. Their union was a cherished partnership that lasted until Robert's passing in 2000. Together, they raised three daughters: Heidi (Ronald) Zartman, Lisa (Mike) Dest, and Katie (Steven) Boggia, who in turn blessed Sondra with grandchildren and great-grandchildren, all of whom she adored: Jessica (John) Gryczewski, Rachel Zartman, Brittany (Josh) Leffert, Allie Dest, Madison (Eugene) Krueger, Zachary Dest, Kayla (Tyler) Gradowski, Ivy Boggia, and her great-grandchildren, Savannah, Junior, Beau, Nash, Blake, Hadley, Easton, and Kinsley.
Sondra's professional life was marked by her passion for education. She worked for many years as a dedicated teacher, touching the lives of countless students through her instruction in various subjects, including typing and art. Her creativity shone brightly as she produced many school plays and served as a drama coach, inspiring her students to express themselves with confidence and grace.
Her Christian faith was the cornerstone of her life. As a pastor's wife, Sondra embraced the many responsibilities that came with supporting her husband's ministry at St. John's Evangelical Lutheran Church. She was a long-time member of the Ladies' Aid Society for St. John Ev. Lutheran Church, where she also showcased her musical talents as a great singer, often gracing weddings and church services with her beautiful voice.
Sondra's sense of humor was as vibrant as the gardens she lovingly tended. She was known for her artistic and creative flair, which was evident not only in her teaching but also in the beauty she cultivated in her garden. Resourceful and resilient, Sondra was a pillar of strength for her family and community, embodying the virtues of a loving mother, a doting grandmother, and a faithful servant of God.
Described by those who knew her as loving, funny, and faith-filled, Sondra's legacy is one of joy, kindness, and unwavering commitment to her beliefs. Her life was a living example of the virtues she held dear, and her memory will continue to be a source of inspiration and comfort to all who were blessed to know her.
As we bid farewell to Sondra Zoe Baer, we celebrate a life beautifully lived and a soul that has undoubtedly been welcomed into the loving arms of her Creator. Her spirit, characterized by love and laughter, will forever resonate in the hearts of her family, friends, and all who were touched by her remarkable presence.