Fred was born October 1, 1922 to Gertrude (Hanna) and Nels Sonmor in Havre Montana. When Fred was a baby, Nels and Gertie followed family to Canada, settling in Loverna where he grew up as one of six brothers and sisters. He realized that farm life was not for him and joined the army, where he served for four and a half years. During his time in the army, he met and married his first wife, Lillian Hopkins. Together they raised three children: Fred Jr., Jack, and Lynn (Linda). During this time Fred never lost his drive to be successful. He sold sewing machines and cars, built a finance company, and manufactured travel trailers.
In the 1970s, Fred met and married Gladys Eby, and they moved to Kelowna, B.C. where he spent time active in many churches in the areas. Fred and Gladys also spent many years as snowbirds in Arizona at Good Life Park where Fred could be found helping his neighbors with their computers, assisting with the park’s plays, and teaching line dancing.
Despite his early years living in the depression, Fred had fond memories of his childhood which he captured in his poem Gophers and Cowboys. Writing was a passion of Fred’s, and he wrote many poems over the years. He also enjoyed line dancing, wood carving, and theology debates with his many spiritual friends.
Fred is predeceased by his mother Gertrude, his father Nels, sisters Mildred, Mildred Gladys, and Shirley, brother Lyle, son Jack, and wife Gladys. Left to celebrate his life are his children Fred S. Sonmor (Brigitte), and Lynn Sonmor along with grandchildren Jonathan Sonmor, Cher Rampton, David Sonmor (Kendra), Kim Sonmor (O.J. Parisien), Mathew Sonmor (Jennifer), and Kayla Sonmor (Adam Gherasim), his sister Fern Sinclair, as well as fifteen great grandchildren and other family members.
Arrangements entrusted to Valleyview Funeral Home, 250-765-3147.
