Garett Sonnabend

(From Clark Funeral Home)

Garett Sherman Sonnabend was born March 20, 1943, in Dearborn, Michigan, one of two sons to Claude Ruby and Kathryn (Potochan) Sonnabend. He entered into rest peacefully at his home in Neosho on November 8, 2022, at the age of 79. 

Garett graduated from high school, obtained an associate degree, and then completed trade school as a Journeyman plumber. He did his apprenticeship in the family business and then worked for Kauffman Plumbing in Los Angeles, California, in the construction of high-rise buildings. He retired from the Plumbers Union at age 45 and moved to Neosho in August 1988, where he purchased a farm. 

He worked at Sunbeam in the maintenance department and retired in 2007. He was a substitute instructor at Crowder College Vocational program, teaching automotive and mechanical classes.

Garett enjoyed woodworking and made beautiful, handcrafted furniture. He enjoyed horses, goats, and riding motorcycles and was a member of the BACA and served as an advocate for those with special needs through Southwest Missouri Support Services. 

On October 10, 1970, in Anchorage, Alaska, Garett and Rosemary VanWie were united in marriage, and Rosemary survives him of the home. In addition, Garett is survived by four children, Toni Ann Banks of Las Vegas, Nevada, Garett Scott Sonnabend, Laura Sonnabend, both of Neosho, and Michael Rusnak of Las Vegas, Nevada; and four grandchildren, Jonathan Garett Taylor, Jeffery Ryan Taylor, Garett Michael Freeman, and Race Nicole Rusnak.

He is preceded in death by his parents and brother, Dale Sonnabend.

The Clark Funeral Home has conducted arrangements in Neosho, Missouri. Private family services will be held. In memory of Garett, contributions may be made to the Special Olympics in honor of Scott Sonnabend.