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Klaus Gunther Sonnenberg

1946-2014

Klaus Gunther Sonnenberg

SaMr. Klaus G.  Sonnenberg of Castalia, Grand Manan Island passed away unexpectedly at the Grand Manan Airport Saturday August 16th, 2014.  Klaus was born in Germany the son of the late Siegfried and Elisabeth (Kroos) Sonnenberg.  They immigrated to Canada in 1952. He graduated from the University of Idaho with a degree in Zoology and began his first career as a Chief Park Naturalist with Parks Canada. After discovering Grand Manan on a flight home to Ingonish, he set his sights on moving there to start an air service in 1978.  Klaus’ first love was his family followed by flying. Klaus and Melanie met on Grand Manan in 1980 and they were married in 1981. Klaus was working for the Department of Fisheries and Oceans while organizing the startup of the air service business, then known as Seagull Aviation, now known as Atlantic Charters. He helped found the Grand Manan Fisherman’s Association.  Between family, flying, and representing fishermen, Klaus’ days were full and he thrived on that. Klaus contributed to the overall success of the community through the air service and his work with the fishermen.  He enjoyed a good debate, travel, experiencing new things and the company of friends Klaus will be remembered for his direct, no nonsense approach to life as well as for the many lives he touched through the medevac air lifts he performed over the years. He will be missed by many.  Klaus is survived by his wife Melanie (Ells), daughter Nickii Sonnenberg, of Cayman Islands.  Two sons; Paul (Nathalie) Sonnenberg of Gatineau, PQ, and Peter Sonnenberg of Woodwards Cove.   Two sisters Heidi (Bob) McLauchlan of Trail, BC, Eva (Archie) Jacobs of Olds, AB and brother Peter (Katie) Sonnenberg of Calgary AB.  His grandchildren William Storkus, Viktor and Kristof Sonnenberg, one great granddaughter Emily Storkus.  Besides his parents he was predeceased by one sister Brigitta Weisner. 

Visiting will be held Friday, August 22, 2014 2-4 PM and 7-9 PM at St. Paul’s Anglican Church. The service will be held at the Grand Manan Community School Saturday August 23, 2014 at 1:00 PM with Rev. Dana Dean officiating. Interment to follow at the Maple Grove Cemetery (family only). By request, Klaus’ family flowers only and donations be made with the Grand Manan Hospital Foundation or the Danielle Park Scholarship Fund.  Funeral arrangements are in the care of Ells Funeral Home Inc., 1199 Route 776, Grand Manan, NB E5G 1G2. Condolences, messages of sympathy also may be sent to www.ells.ca or (506)662-3116.

                                                                                                 

 

Service Date
Saturday, August 23, 2014
Service Time
1:00 pm
Service Location
Grand Manan Community School

Visitation
Friday August 22, 2014
Visitation Time
2-4 & 7-9 pm
Visitation Location
St. Paul's Anglican Chuirch

Burial Location
Maple Grove Cemetery

Requested Charity
Grand Manan Hospital Foundation or the Danielle Park Memorial Scholarship Fund