It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Jerry Sonier on December 5th, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and cherished member of every community he touched.

He leaves behind his loving wife Diane, his daughter LeeAnn (Aidan) and their children Felix, Luke, and Liliane, and his son Sean (Madeline). He is survived by his mother Leona (Sanford).

He also leaves behind family who shaped his life in profound ways: his uncle Lee (Martha), who was like a father to him, and his aunts Joanne (Colin) and Betty (Howard), who were like mothers to him. He is also survived by his aunts Emelda and Regina. He will be deeply missed by his brother Dennis (Kathy), as well as his siblings Kim (Leonard), Beverley (Jody), Rose-Marie (Billy), Adrian (Brenda), Tony (Betty-Jean), Danny (Lori), and Brian (Kelly). He was predeceased by his grandparents Arthur and Laura, who also raised him as their son, and by his aunts and uncles Gerald, Venance, Melford, and Jane.

Born in Miramichi, New Brunswick, he grew up with an enduring passion for sports—especially hockey and baseball. Throughout his life, he not only played and watched these sports with enthusiasm, but, shared that love generously. He coached his children and delighted in watching his grandchildren play sports, proudly encouraging them, always believing in the power of sports to teach, inspire, and bring people together. His love of the game was matched only by his desire to make sure others could experience it too. When his grandnephew’s team needed a coach just to exist, he didn’t hesitate—he stepped forward so that the kids could play, learn, and grow through the sport he cherished. His selflessness and dedication made him a quiet pillar in each community’s athletic life.

His career in mining carried him across the country. It first brought him to Timmins, Ontario, where he met the love of his life, Diane. From there, they moved to Miramichi, close to the place he grew up, before life and work eventually settled them in Ottawa, where he lived while working in Northern Quebec. He retired in 2023. Retirement didn’t slow him down. Always active, he embraced golf, curling, lawn bowling, bowling, and dancing, finding joy in staying connected and on the move. Taking dance classes with Diane became a highlight—he started dancing for her, but soon brought laughter, warmth, and light to everyone in the room.

Above all, he loved his grandchildren, who were truly the center of his world. He was an exceptional father, a devoted husband, and a kind, steady presence whose influence stretched through families, teams, and entire communities. His loss has reverberated deeply among all who knew him. He left a strong impression wherever he went, and he will be sorely missed.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation in his memory. Condolences and Memories may be shared at www.capitalmemorial.ca.