Sonia Ines Elyateem

Born on February 19, 1941, in Providencia Island to Betsy Whittaker and Luis Carlos Salazar, Sonia later immigrated to the United States, where she built a fulfilling life rooted in hard work, faith, and love. She spent many years in Flint, Michigan, where she worked for General Motors in the manufacturing division for 19 years before retiring to follow her entrepreneurial passion in real estate.

Sonia found great success and joy in her second career, building a real estate business that reflected her independence, determination, and keen eye for opportunity. A proud and resilient single mother, she created a life of security and beauty for herself and her children.

Romantic at heart, Sonia experienced love and partnership throughout her life. She was the beloved mother of four children: Luis Masquitta, Alberto Newball, Ernesto Newball, and Blanca Backus (Newball). Sonia was known not only for her devotion to her business but also for her unforgettable cooking and family gatherings, impeccable sense of style, and a spirited love for travel, fishing, camping, decorating, and telenovelas. Her faith was a guiding light in her life, and she remained deeply committed to her church and spiritual practice.

Sonia is survived by her children: Luis Masquitta Salazar, Alberto Newball, and Blanca Backus (Newball); and her cherished grandchildren: Janelle Masquitta, Magda Masquitta, Leonard Masquitta, Elisa Newball, Daisy Newball, Blanca Underly, Luis Masquitta, Susana Walkling, and Jordan Masquitta.

She is also survived by her loving siblings: Richard Dawkins, Inocencio Dawkins, Raphelia Dawkins, Luisa Salazar, Nimfa Salazar, Ericka Salazar, Florentino Salazar, Diogenes Salazar and Graciela Salazar.

Sonia was preceded in death by her son, Ernesto Newball; husbands Luis Newball Archbold and Pete Kreisman; and siblings Ira Hoy, Violeta Dawkins, Fernandez Whittaker, and Joe Hoy.

In accordance with Sonia’s wishes, a celebration of life will be held at a later date, as her family lovingly returns her to her birthplace of Providencia Island, Colombia, for her final rest.