Raymond A. Sonntag

Raymond Andrew Sonntag, “Poppop,” 82, of Shelburne Falls, passed away peacefully at home on March 2nd, 2025.

Raymond was born in Floral Park, New York on January 15, 1943, the son of Robert and Frances Sonntag. He graduated from Hicksville High School, then attended Dartmouth College on a full football scholarship. He then attended NYU where he received his Master's in Industrial Engineering. The majority of Ray’s career was spent with Northrup Grumman Aerospace Corporation, as a systems analyst, where his direct assistance had an impact on the design of the F-14 Tomcat, Stealth Fighter jet, and B-2 Spirit bomber, to name a few.

Ray met his wife of 44 years, Mary, in Hicksville, New York, while they were in high school. They were married in 1966, while Ray was still working on his master’s degree. She was the love of his life and he always referred to her as his “Sweetheart”. They chose Huntington, New York, to raise their incredible family of nine children. In 1992, he moved his family to Western Mass, where he spent the remainder of his wonderful life.

Ray will always be remembered for his skillful work around the house, from building decks and play structures to major renovations. His innovative forts and backyard play structures will be some of the most fond memories from his children’s lives, as well as the weekly trips to various wood parks on Long Island. He was an outstanding chess player and when his children weren't enough competition he would often beat the computer.

As a devout Catholic, Ray maintained a leadership role in Nocturnal Adoration on Long Island and continued his devotion to adoration in Massachusetts. As an active member of The Holy Trinity Lay Community in Heath, he strengthened his faith and devotion to Our Lady and the Rosary. For over thirty years, Ray selflessly donated blood once a month to help support the American Red Cross. Throughout the years, Ray and Mary generously opened their home to many foster children, which undoubtedly had a positive impact on each child’s life.

Ray was admired and loved by so many. He lived an extraordinary life but humbly lived as if it were an ordinary one. Our father will be greatly missed and cherished for his kindness, generosity, and wit, that inspired so many throughout his life. His quiet way, stoic strength, playful and witty humor will be his legacy. Ray’s influence will forever leave a lasting imprint on our hearts, always helping us strive to be better.

Ray is survived by his remaining eight children, Daniel of Shelburne, Kristine of Falmouth, Joseph (Angela) of Heath, Virginia (Ché) of Colrain, Jon of Shelburne, Joshua of Turners, April (Jae) of Shelburne Falls, and Holly (Chris) of Shelburne Falls, as well as a few nephews and nieces. He also leaves behind 31 adoring grandchildren, all of whom loved their Poppop dearly.

Preceding him in death were his loving wife, Mary, and his firstborn, Raymond. His parents, Robert and Frances, his siblings, Harold, Marion, Florence, and Robert.

Wake hours will be held at the Smith-Kelleher Funeral Home on March 9, from 1:00-4:00 pm. A Liturgy of Christian Burial will be held at St. Joseph of Shelburne Falls, March 10, at 11:00 am, followed by a Reception at The Blue Rock Restaurant. His burial will take place at a future date.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. Joseph Parish 34 Monroe Avenue, Shelburne Falls, Massachusetts 01370 https://www.stjosephparishma.com/

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