Dolores Rose Sonderman

Dolores was the heart of every gathering, always happiest when surrounded by the people she loved most. She treasured time spent at the family lake house at the Lake of the Ozarks, where laughter, family, and spontaneous get-togethers were never in short supply.

She especially loved boat riding and floating in the lake while making memories with her family. No occasion was too small for Dolores to host, as she found great joy in bringing people together. She was a proud member of the Red Hat Ladies Guild, and the Heavenly Dusters, and she remained deeply devoted to her church, always eager to lend a helping hand wherever she was needed.

Dolores had a special love for crocheting and knitting, affectionately referred to by her husband Karl as “crodiddling.” She also enjoyed playing cards, bingo, and dominos, especially the quiet evenings spent playing cards with her beloved husband of 67 years, Karl Sonderman. Her nightly routine often included a little Bailey’s over ice while relaxing with family. Known lovingly as “GMa” to her grandchildren, “GGMa” to her great-grandchildren, and “Grandma Sonderman” to many South St. Louis friends and extended family, Dolores had a way of making everyone feel welcome and loved.

A devoted fan of the St. Louis Blues, Dolores especially admired Bobby Plager, proudly insisting he had the best hip check in hockey. She and her husband enjoyed attending games together as season ticket holders over the years. Above all else, Dolores cherished supporting her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren at their sporting events and activities, faithfully cheering them on every chance she could.

Dolores is survived by her loving husband, Karl Sonderman; her children Terry Laffler (John), Vickie Sonderman, Sandy Brasier (Tony), Colleen Bohn (Paul), and Julie Ellison (Matt); her grandchildren the late Johnny Laffler, Nick Laffler (Amy), Jake Laffler (Julie), Megan Laffler (Tim), Chris Campbell, Steve Campbell (Shannon), Anthony Brasier (Nicole), Melissa Bates (Aaron), Jennifer Creed (Jim), Erin Ellison (Phil), Matthew Ellison (Jason), Emma Sonderman (Carson), and Ethan Sonderman; and her great-grandchildren Kayla, Hugo, Stella, Hannah, Henry, Sophia, Ellie, Chloe, and Naomi. She is also survived by her siblings Donna Molen (the late Tom), Joan Zerega (Bob), Dan Mueller (Pam), Joyce Sophie (the late Frank), Bob Mueller (the late Lynn) , along with many beloved nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, children Dale Sonderman (Kim) and Lisa Sonderman; her siblings Walter Mueller (Gerri), Charlie Mueller (Becky), Louise Mueller, and Gary Mueller. Dolores was also a cherished aunt and great-aunt to many who will miss her dearly.

Visitation will be held at Hoffmeister Colonial Mortuary, 6464 Chippewa Street, St. Louis, MO 63109, US, on May 19, 2026, from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm.

A Funeral Mass will take place at Epiphany of Our Lord Church, 6596 Smiley Ave, St. Louis, MO 63139, US, on May 20, 2026, at 9:00 am.

Committal will follow at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery, 2900 Sheridan Rd, St. Louis, MO 63125, US, on May 20, 2026, at 11:00 am.