Robert's life began July 15, 1950 in Benton Harbor. He was a lifetime area resident. He worked for State of Michigan Road commission and the Villiage of Stevensville as head of maintenance, but his passion was his art. Robert was an incredibly accomplished artist and you could find his master pieces at several area stores. He enjoyed volunteering his time in the past with Stevensville Queen Committee, their float committee, and he volunteered during their Bi-Centennial Celebration. Robert enjoyed the outdoors, working on his house and building model cars. He was also a member of the Sons of the American Legion. His family includes: two children Correna Williamson and Christopher Bancroft both of Watervliet; three grandchildren Blake Poirier, Brittany Neely, and Gwenyth Durham; a great grandson Emmett Neely; three siblings Eugene Sonnichen, Sharon (Mark) Grothe, and Susan (Steve) Hudzinski; many nieces and nephews; and two great nieces.

Robert died unexpectedly Thursday, May 26. His parents Robert and Marcella (Hemmelgarn) Sonnichen precede Robert in death. Hutchins Funeral Home in Watervliet is assisting Robert's family with cremation arrangements. You may leave a memory of Robert at hutchinsfuneral.com