Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
Mark Freund Sonnenschein
FUNERAL HOME
UPCOMING SERVICE
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.
Memorial Events
for Mark Sonnenschein
Memories and Condolences
for Mark Sonnenschein
1 Entry
Bernie Link
Earlier today
Mark and I crossed paths at work for many years and I frequently saw him working out at Planet Fitness, from January, 2023 to summer of 2025. I own (or they own me) three hunting dogs, so that was common ground we covered in conversation. It did my heart good to talk to someone who allowed dogs to do what they were bred to do. The shock of Mark's passing has not worn off (I am also 68 years old), as he seemed to be in very good health and spirits. In the coming years, remember all the good work Mark did as a professional and also his devotion to family and dogs.
Showing 1 - 1 of 1 results
Make a Donation
in Mark Sonnenschein's name
How to support Mark's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Mark Sonnenschein's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
