Wesley Allan Sonius

Wesley Allan Sonius passed away on December 7, 2024. Allan was born November 12, 1942, to Wesley Arnold and Ruth Evelyn Sonius in Sheldon, Iowa. Allan is the oldest of three and enjoyed a special relationship with both brothers, Dennis Sonius (Nancy, deceased) and David Sonius (Laura). In October 1954, the family relocated to Twin Falls, Idaho. Allan is a graduate of Twin Falls High School and married his wife, Drena, in 1963. Allan and Drena moved to Pocatello to start their life together. They were married for 61 years. 

Allan had a love for automobiles and mechanics. He completed the auto mechanics program at Idaho State and worked at Park Price. Allan expanded his love for cars further and participated in drag racing, spectated NASCAR racing, and attended antique car shows. 

In the early 1970’s, Allan changed his career path and became a business owner. He was a true entrepreneur who started in axillary gas tanks and ended with metal seed boxes and roll-off trash containers. His design of the metal seed box had a positive impact on the agricultural business. Around 1999 Allan sold S&T Development and worked for the new company as a salesman. This new role allowed him to work from home. It is at this time that Allan and Drena bought a second home in Lake Havasu City, Arizona where they enjoyed spending the winter months for several years. Allan is one of the rare people who truly loved his job and working.

Together, Allan and Drena raised three children: Laurie Jones (Jerry), Debbie Hopkins (Todd), and Doug Sonius. Both Allan and Drena were involved parents and enjoyed spectating sports activities and drill team. In the 1970’s boating became a family passion and Allan bought the first family boat. Every summer weekend for many years the family spent boating. Allan’s past drag racing experience festered up and he found himself enhancing the boat engine to get more and more speed from the boat. This expanded to some friendly competition with a few others to see who could hold the fastest boat record on the Snake River. Allan was often on top. He loved the speed of his boat and traded for a newer, faster version a few times.

Allan was an avid golfer and enjoyed everything golf. In 1981 construction began on their dream home with a wonderful view of the Highland golf course and the 17th green. This provided an easy golf cart ride down to the club house and enjoyment he would find for the rest of his years. He looked forward to friendly competitions and beer with friends after playing 18. Allan also played golf in Lake Havasu with Drena and friends for several years. He was grateful to have traveled and golfed a few times in Maui, Hawaii. 

Many of Allan’s and Drena’s travel miles were spent going back and forth to Salt Lake City. Both daughters relocated to the Salt Lake valley where they currently live and have families. Allan and Drena spent most birthdays and holidays in Salt Lake City. Family has always been a top priority. Allan has 4 grandchildren: April Baker (Jesse), Christina Jones, Brandon Jones, Madison Hopkins; and one great-granddaughter: Marguarette Schramm. Allan and Drena attended every special occasion of their grandchildren and every dance recital of their granddaughter Madison. 

Allan is preceded in death by his parents, Wesley and Ruth Sonius and his son, Doug Sonius. Doug died unexpectedly in 1995. 

The family would like to extend their appreciation to Steve and Janet Bell along with the West Clinic for all their love and support to Allan over the years. 

An Open House Celebration of Life will be held this Saturday, December 14, 2024 from 11 am to 1 pm at Colonial Funeral Home, 2005 S. 4th Avenue in Pocatello, Idaho.

Memories and condolences may be shared using the guestbook below.