Charles "Sonny" STRAWTHER

1938 - 2025

November 20, 1938 – March 3, 2025

Charles "Sonny" Strawther, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on March 3, 2025, at the age of 86. Born on November 20, 1938, in Kennett, Missouri, he was the first of four sons in a close-knit family. Sonny spent his early years in San Francisco and Redwood City, later moved to Menlo Park with his wife, Donna; and children, Rory and Rachelle; and eventually settled in Spokane, Washington, where he called home for nearly 30 years.

After high school, Sonny joined the construction business alongside his father and brother, a career he followed throughout his life. As a general contractor, he earned a reputation for his skill and work ethic; many of his longtime friends still speak fondly of work that he did for them going back decades. Sonny also proudly served in the Marine Corps Reserve for six years.

Sonny's passions extended beyond his career and service. He co-owned two Cessnas with his best friend, Phil, and flew with the San Carlos Flying Club-a hobby that brought him great joy. Another passion was sports. In addition to playing basketball and baseball in his youth, he was a devoted 49ers fan and later spent many an evening at Maples Pavillion cheering on the Stanford Women's basketball team. He played basketball well into his 50s in a local rec league, and in the last decade of his life, found joy in attending home games of the Gonzaga Women's Basketball team - even though they were rivals to Stanford.

As much as Sonny enjoyed sports, his true love was sugar. He had a legendary sweet tooth and lived by the gospel of the four Cs-Coca-Cola, cake, cookies, and chocolate. If you were lucky enough to be around, he'd happily share the spoils of his stash.

Although Sonny was something of a reluctant traveler, some of his favorite memories were from his trips to Europe with his wife Donna, and of their travels in different parts of the U.S. with their close friends.

As a father, Sonny was the definition of unwavering support. He never missed a game, practice, or event for Rory and Rachelle. His pride in his kids knew no bounds. Later, as his family grew to include grandchildren, Sonny's heart grew right along with it-becoming the most doting grandpa around.

Sonny was preceded in death by his son, Rory; and is survived by his wife, Donna; his daughter, Rachelle; his youngest brother, Larry; and his grandchildren and bonus grandchildren, Mara, Zawa, Jaea and Eli. A private celebration of his life will be held for family in late spring.

Sonny's easygoing nature, infectious smile, and willingness to help people made him beloved by all who knew him. He will be deeply missed by all whose lives he touched.