June 23, 2025 – Deerbrook, Wi – Joseph L. Sonn passed away on Thursday, June 5, 2025. Born in Hartford, Wisconsin, Joe was the son of Joseph and Viola (née Kuechler) Sonn. At just 17, he proudly joined the National Guard, serving as a Sergeant Survey Specialist.
On September 5, 1953, Joe married the love of his life, Rita Hesprich. Together, they shared 71 years of marriage.
Joe worked as a foreman at Dairy Equipment in Hartford and later at Stolper Industries, where he helped build cabs for farm equipment. He concluded his career with 14 dedicated years at Briggs & Stratton before retiring.
An avid outdoorsman, Joe found great joy in hunting, fishing, and snowmobiling with family and friends. He also raised three quarter horses and treasured the winters he and Rita spent in Texas and their cottage up north over the years.
Joe is survived by his wife, Rita; his loving children, Barb (Jerry) Leech, Joan (Dave) Fahrenkrug, and Debbie Sonn; eight grandchildren; and twelve great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his brothers, Robert and Richard Sonn, and his sisters, Kathy Witt and Rosina Pauli.
Funeral services for Joseph will be held on Saturday, June 28, 2025 at St. Peter’s Catholic Church (200 E Washington St., Slinger, WI 53086). Family will greet relatives and friends from 9:30 a.m. until the start of Mass at 11 a.m. Rev. Richard Stoffel will be officiating. Further fellowship and food will be shared immediately following Mass. Committal will be held privately with family.
