He has a birthday in september my  birthday is in a week on 9-22-2006

I  am so sorry for loss it is so hard to lose someone you love I have lost  A lot of family  I lost my grandmother 2016 January 29,2016 the day after my brother birthday  

I can’t believe it has been a whole year! We have been so distracted with COVID that we forget those we lost. Chris was an intelligent young man who slipped away to early in life. God bless his friends and family during this time of remembrance. 

Can't believe it has been a year. Miss his talks of moonshine and music. Rest easy Chris.

Chris was the first unrelated  kid I ever got attached to. He was adorable and clever and happy.  I took him to the park once as a child development class assignment. I was nervous about the car seat and whether or not he would have fun with just me. But he was so easy and good and happily played with me at the park, and when it was time to go, there was no fussing.  ❤️

I was one of the many medical staff that took care of this amazing, beautiful soul. I was always happy to see him and welcome him with “whatsup brotha?!” And the following smiles that would make my day. I smile at the countless times talking about guitars and making inappropriate jokes. If you know Chris, you know how his pessimism and sarcasm was beyond most- one of my favorite traits he had. . . I am so saddened to hear of his passing and the pain his family is undoubtedly feeling from his loss. Especially his momma who was always by his side. My deepest condolences and hugs to everyone. May he Rest In Peace and rock out once again. 

I didn't know Chris but I feel like I got a  glimpse of his colorful and perky personality in that beautiful Tribute. I'm so sorry for your loss, Tina, and am praying over you and all of Chris's loving family that "... the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus" (Phil 4:7). 

It was my privilege to be a part of Chris’ care. He truly had a kind heart. He was a strong person that I respected and cared for.  We had many conversations regarding music, guitars, cars, and people. He was such an interesting person with such charisma. May God bless You Chris and keep you safe in heaven. 

My cousin never failed to make me laugh. Whether it was yelling about ponchos in a funny voice  or falling on his butt trying to teach me to moonwalk, Chris always put a smile on my face. I’m going to miss his warmth, but I’m sure he’s up there making Nano laugh the same way. 

Chris was planning on being home for the holidays and in preparation, he went shopping!  He purchased plates, silverware, glasses and cooking utensils in anticipation of his guests.  He went online Christmas shopping as well and I had the honor of unpacking the gifts that he carefully chose for the loved ones in his life.  We had a list of fun, thoughtful, colorful gifts for his friends and family.

I am honored  to be a part of Christopher's story that continues to this day.



I don't have many memories of Chris, but the memory that sticks out in my mind the most was a day trip that our families took to Corpus Christi. Chris spent most of the day carefully creating a sand sculpture of a woman and burying me and the other kids in the sand at our request. I remember being absolutely taken aback by Chris's creativity. While the rest of us merely saw sand, Chris saw a medium for a beautiful but temporary sculpture.

I'm Chris's cousin but he always called me "Uncle Bruce."   Several years ago, Chris came through for me when I really needed help putting up a booth at an antique show.  It was extremely hard work and lasted a couple of days but Chris was totally up for it. Chris's  size and  strength was a big asset.  He was so energetic and full of life.

I thought of that time together almost every time when I visited him in the hospital.  It was the most time we had spent together one-on-one and it was meaningful.  

I'm happy for him that he is out of that bed now.





I remember, probably close to a decade ago, Chris chasing me across my parent’s front and back yard. He has mentioned this story countless times mainly to make fun of me. He found it hilarious that him, a 280+ pound individual could chase down someone over 10 years younger than him, who has been playing baseball year round for a while at this point. Yes, he did catch me, yes he did wear me down. However, as I liked to mention every time he would bring up this story, I was barefoot. Severely cut down my speed, endurance, and fortitude. This was the excuse I always gave anyway. 

Chris was a friend of my daughter Sarah Goins.  I remember Chris always with a smile and willingness to help someone.  I remember many times Chris helping my daughter in situations and even lending myself assistance.  I'm so sorry for your families loss and the world itself will miss Chris's smile and his help in the world.


Chris wasn’t like anyone else because he loved so well.  He was my sister Joanne’s first grandchild and they were so fond of each other.   He even gave her her nickname “Nano”.  He cared about certain people and called them  often. He also loved his animals and gave them unusual names like Butters and Pokey.  He was very interested in his music too.  Most of us will never forget Chris. 

Chris always had a piece of my heart. I was only around during his younger and teen years, but he had a strong impact on me. Chris was always curious about life and strived to get his answers.  He seemed to always have an easy sense of humor. Always telling ne not to stress. "It will be fine. I can help you with that."  He loved Mackenzie and Peyton. He especially liked to make them laugh at his silly jokes.  They enjoyed being around him. They were so blessed to move closer to San Antonio after high school. They were able to know Chris as an adult. Peyton loved learning about his mead project.  He was so excited to bring some to the house for Michael and I to try. The one thing I will never forget about Chris is that at Nano's funeral I went to talk to him and remind him who I was because it had bern years since I had seen him. He said  to me , "You will always be my Aunt Laurie,  no matter what". I loved that kid!!

Chris became like family to me. He was a good neighbor and friend. Chris's friendship knew no bounds it didn't matter if you were twice his age. My dearest memory was how  he helped me design a special kind of scar just for him and he loved it so much that he gave it to almost  all the ladies of his family one year for Christmas and now when I make one I will always think of him.

Of course I remember Chris from the very beginning. As a tiny baby whom we so thoughtlessly woke up one evening while visiting you. And as the cutest, funniest little guy who had us in stitches at the age of 2. You two shared a bed and pretty much grew up together.   He turned  into a tall, handsome, funny young man with the Lawrence talents of art and humor.  He will be missed. Love to you 💕

Our deepest condolences to you and your family for the loss of your dear son. Words cannot express the shock when I received news of your son's passing. Our prayers and thoughts are with you at this very difficult time. May your friends family and God comfort you  and help you heal such a loss. We are so very sad  by this unexpected news. God bless you always, Mimi Monaco and Family


So sorry to hear of your loss.  We will pray for your comfort.

I met Chris when he was a teenager.  We went to the same church and my wife Rita and his mom were inseparable at that time. Chris was always very respectful towards me and a pleasure to be around. We would keep up with him as he grew and every occasion we had an opportunity that same sweet respectful teenager was there talking to me. Chris you will be missed but I am happy your pain and suffering have ended. 

Where do i even try and begin..... christopher allen, your where the most amazing person and funniest person i have ever met. We dated 5 years, all my child hood was filled with all the memories we had together. Racing cars, working on ur car, changing the oil, swimming and being crazy young in love teenagers. We always would tell everyone that " we loved to hate each other".... you made my teenage years wonderful and memorable. When i heard about ur accident i died a little inside. But you took that and owned it like a MAN. I saw you over come many things since then. But now my heart and every ounce in me is crushed. You will always been my first love and my high school sweetheart.. for ever!!!!!! I will always remember your smile and laugh till we meet again.. xoxo

We moved to Schertz from Cleveland, Ohio and met the Harrells at church in 2001. Tina and I were in choir together and we became best friends as if overnight! Chris was older than our son, Seamus, but they got along really well and they hung out at church and whenever the families got together. I was a teacher in the district and often saw Chris at the high school. His face would light up when he saw me and he'd always give me a big hug--even in high school he was never "too cool" to be sweet and show he cared, if he liked you! But my favorite story with Chris was during a Christmas show we were doing at the church--and I cast Chris as one of the leads and his great sense of humor was a real asset to the production. Chris had a smile that could light up the room. He was loved and will be missed.

met Chris when I was Waiting tables at Jim’s in 2005/2006. He would come sit in my section and wait for me while I did all my side work. We would talk for hours. I always knew when it was close to the End of my shift Because Chris would come in and wait for me to get off. His Ability to tell a story was incredible ! He had to be the most fascinating person ever. Later on started doing hair and he will call on me to do Mohawk or do something different. After his accident he got a hold of me and it turned out we lived in the same apartment complex so I would go over and do his hair or go to the hospital and do his hair, the ideas that he would come up with we’re  awesome. My memories with him will last forever.I know you’re up there in heaven driving fast cars and playing fast guitar. 

Christopher Allen meant the world to me.  He was more like a little brother than my oldest nephew.  Many may not realize this, but we were only 15 years apart and we grew up together living in the same house.  He was basically my shadow.  One of my favorite memories was that when he was super little, I taught him how to spell "Schlotzsky's".  I can hear him now, clear as day when he spelled it because he added emphasis with the different letters.  You see, I worked there and he would go there with me  all the time; and at home, he would wear my apron and pretend he was cooking and serving me.  I have pictures somewhere and if I can find it, I will share it with you.  I loved that he let me play with is hair whenever I wanted to.  I am pretty sure I was the one who introduced him to the faux hawk.  He let me braid, curl, highlight, cut - basically do whatever I wanted to do to his hair without complaint.  What I would give to have pictures of that.  He was loyal to a fault and I loved that about him.  When I would come home from college for visits, he would always make time for me even if it meant he had to give up time with his friends.  When we moved to Washington it wasn't any different.  Once he threatened to quit his job because he couldn't get  the days off.  He said, "Don't worry Aunt Sue-Sue, I can get another.  Worst case I will go back to delivering pizzas; they loved me."  Always made time for his Aunt Sue.  Chris, you will always be an important part of my family.  I see so much of you in Cameron -pokemon, trucker hats, and cut sleeved t shirts will live on.  I see your ability to tell stories and your thirst for knowledge in Zachary Allen.  Sean and I will continue to see you everywhere and it will give me comfort thinking of you smiling down at us.   I will hear you in the wind, see you in other peoples smile, and feel love in the warmth of the sun.  Always and Forever,
 Your Aunt Sue-Sue

I probably called him Chris twice the whole time I knew him. Giggles was a part of our family for so long it's hard to remember what it was like before Cory brought him into our lives. I have a million memories with him, and in at least half of them I was probably yelling at him because he drove me crazy, but you couldn't help but love him. He had a bigger than life personality that you don't have the fortune of coming across very often.  The running joke was that we'd end up married one day, but that would have been disastrous for everyone.  There will never be anyone else like Giggles, and that's lucky for us because it will make it impossible for anyone to forget him. 

I am fortunate enough to have had Chris in my life the last 2 years, and during that time he would call me nearly daily anytime from 1 to 3 am. He was my big little brother.  Looking back at all the memories, it is so hard to pick just one. I think one of my favourite memories would have to be him calling at about 2 to 3 am after finding out my cancer had come back.  Instead of ever saying, "Did I wake you?" he would always start like we were in mid conversation. That morning was no different. "Hey I have been doing some research. We need to get you a wasp nest, milk the venom from them, and inject it into your lymphoma cells. It will kill the lymphoma, and if you are allergic we can fix the anaphylaxis. It'll work out." He was so sure he had found the cure. Regardless of the issues he had, if he loved you, he moved heaven and hell to help in any way he could. 2 years isn't long, but the thousands of memories he gave me will last my whole life. I love him dearly and miss him more than I can put into words. 

Chris was a part of our family for as long as I can remember. So much so that I will forever consider him one of my own.  He called me Mom and I called him my Piggles.  There are so many wonderful memories but one that stands out is his ability to tell a story.  He could have me laughing until I cried.  My son, Cordell, and Chris were inseparable and some of the stuff they got into together could crack me up or make me want to wring their necks!  I loved him with all my heart and he will forever be missed.  

There are literally way too many memories with Chris for me to share. I have a lifetime of memories together with him. He was more than just my best friend. He was by all means except blood, my Brother. I think my best all around memory of him, is him himself. No matter what I did he always had my back. Even if it meant him telling my parents the stupid things I did. He always wanted what was best for me. And I loved him for it. We fought constantly and have broken bones on each other. It was all love. So again, my best memory of Chris, is our life and all our stupid shenanigans. Chris himself is a memory, that everyone he knew will never forget, and the people he knew will probably still talk about him to their kids and grandkids. He was legendary. 

My favorite memory of Chris is when we were racing our bikes on the dirt road at Opie’s House. When we got to the finish line, Dave exclaimed, “Loafs won!” Chris kept riding, but looked back in dismay because he knew..... BOOM, there goes Chris flying through the air in a 360 and landing flat on his back. He hit the curb on the other side of the road. Chris knew he had won and was trying to make his case, but he forgot to stop in doing so. Yes Chris was just fun because he was tough, but we always loved playing outdoors and riding our bikes!

I was Chris’ case manager for almost 4 years.  I knew right away he had a heart of gold. His medical difficulties were quite the challenge. I met them full on and, together with Chris, we conquered as many as we could. He loved his plastic surgeon, Dr Pradeep Mohan, who did his ultimate best for Chris. Dr Mohan once told me I should stop acting like a mom with Chris. How could I do that if Tina was out of town?? I used compassion every day to manage his medical issues, a compassion like non-other. Chris and I worked together as a team; with the help of his family of course!  Chris taught me so much about his injury and how to manage his care. He also saved me a thousand dollars on repairs to my car when it was in the shop. Thank you Chris! I have knowledge I never had because of you! Enjoy playing music with the Angels. I look forward to seeing you leading the angelic concert. 

One time, Chris and I were hanging out. We had made some pancakes (he loved my pancakes) and there were some left over. I had went to the restroom and when I came out, I got hit in the face with a pancake LOADED with butter. It was in my hair, on my glasses, on the floor, on my face, everywhere. He definitely helped me clean up while laughing. It was one of the most funniest things. This is a memory I will cherish forever. This showed his personality in all different ways. From a jokester, to a loving and caring person. I will forever miss him and he will always be in my heart. I love you Christopher Allen! 

Christopher I did not know you very well, but I had the privilege of working with your Grandma Joanne to find her a home that was one story with a pool, and wheelchair accessible so you could come visit.  She talked of how you loved swimming and how special you were.  I take comfort in knowing that you are now free of pain and with your grandma in heaven. I will be praying for God to comfort your family in the days ahead.

Christopher Sonnenburg my son that was brought into the world September 4, 1985 has been released from his burden on December 7, 2019.  Due to complications from his quadriplegic condition that started Feb 2014.  
He was a force to be reckoned with, a one of a kind.  He had so many friends from different walks of life. It didn’t matter to him about anyone’s vocation, it was all about friendship.  I know it’s been hard for his friends these last 6 years as it has been for him.  These last 2 years have been so difficult being in a hospital setting between surgeries.  I wanted to thank all his friends that stood by him through this tough part of his life.  Even just a phone call made his day.  Imagine being in his position, without friends it would have been unbearable for him.  So thank you to all his friends that tried to put a little sunshine in his life.   Love Mom

Rest in peace Christopher. Uncle Sean will miss you. My heart hurts with all the family. Till I see you again, do not break to many harp strings. Love ya.

A Celebration of Life Memorial Service

He is survived by his grandparents, Allen Sonnenburg, Norma and Euna Harrell, his parents, Brian and Tina Harrell, Richard and Amber Sonnenburg, and his brothers, Corey and Jacob Harrell

OBITUARY

Christopher Allen Sonnenburg

September 4, 1985 – December 7, 2019

Colonial Funeral Home

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