Sonny grew up in Indiana taking fishing trips to Canada with his father. Their family spent many weekends boating, fishing and skiing, taking great pride in keeping their boat in pristine condition.
He graduated from Warren Central High School in Indianapolis and attended Berry College in Rome, Georgia.
Sonny began working with Johnson&Johnson in the animal pharmaceutical industry. This began his journey as a lifelong salesman and led to relocations to Florida, Colorado and finally Nebraska.
Sonny fell in love with Nebraska and the people. Sonny commented that he kept encountering some of the friendliest people he had ever met, always a friendly wave and a smile in small town Nebraska.
Sonny’s sales journey continued at Land and Sky Company where in 1977 Roseanne Cole joined the company. Sonny and Roseanne were engaged on January 26th, 1979, and were married January 26th, 1980. In January 1981 they welcomed their first child, Chris, and in June 1985 their second child, Rob.
Sonny continued as a salesman and entrepreneur before joining Farm Bureau Financial Services as an insurance salesman.
Sonny was an avid golfer and strong competitor. It was common knowledge that you would find him most Wednesday afternoons on the golf course with his friends. He loved taking care of his land and the home he and Roseanne shared for 46 years.
Sonny was a proud grandfather to Jayce, Lillie and Henry. He loved spending time at their sporting events, recitals and concerts. Most recently sharing his love for golf with lessons for his granddaughter.
After supervising the season ending boat cleanup and a season ending boat ride, he passed away peacefully in his sleep in his happiest place on earth, at the cabin ion East Lake Okoboji, surrounded by his wife and kids.
Until we meet again, we will not say good bye only see you later.
With all of our love, forever and always – Your family.
Visitation with family present from 6-7:30 pm Thursday, October 22, 2025, Roper and Sons South Chapel.
Funeral service: 11:00 am Friday, October 23, 2026, Roper and Sons South Chapel, 3950 Hohensee St.
Memorials to Aces for Ager c/o Lincoln Parks and Recreation.