Sonja R Brobeck

Dr. Sonja R. Brobeck, 85, of Julian, passed away peacefully at her home on Friday, November 28, 2025. Born February 26, 1940, in Clearfield, she was the daughter of the late William Clyde and Thelma Ruth (Peters) Nelson. On August 25, 1961, she married Theodore E. "Ted" Brobeck, Jr., who preceded her in death on November 12, 2024.
Sonja was a 1958 graduate of Clearfield Area High School. She went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Education from Lock Haven Teachers College and later a Ph.D. in Education from Penn State University.
She began her career teaching science at Bald Eagle Area High School before moving to the Philipsburg-Osceola School District. After several years in the classroom, she transitioned into administration and eventually became Superintendent of the Philipsburg-Osceola School District, a position from which she retired after many years of dedicated service.
Sonja found great joy in tending to her yard and especially her flower gardens. When taking a break, she loved sitting on her patio watching the birds. Above all, her greatest joy in life was her family, particularly her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, each of whom she treasured deeply and celebrated with pride. She was a member of Our Lady of Victory Catholic Church in State College.
She is survived by her three children: Theodore E. Brobeck III and his wife, Christina, of Julian; Josie Brobeck of Philipsburg; and Michael T. Brobeck and his wife, Lori, of Port Matilda. She is also survived by nine grandchildren, fourteen great-grandchildren, and one brother, Kenneth Nelson, and his wife, Junco, of Kentucky.
In addition to her parents and husband, Sonja was preceded in death by a son, Timothy P. Brobeck, and two brothers, W. Charles Nelson and James Nelson.
A Funeral Mass will be held on Tuesday, December 2, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. at Our Lady of Victory Catholic Church in State College, with Father George Jakopac officiating. Burial will be private.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Daughenbaugh Funeral Home, Inc., in Milesburg, PA. An online guest book and condolence messages may be shared with the family at www.daughenbaughfuneralhome.com