Peter Sonnesyn

Peter Sonnesyn, 75, Wahpeton, ND, passed away Friday, July 24, 2015 at his home in Wahpeton. A memorial service will be on Saturday, September 19, 2015 at 11:00 AM at Willow Creek Chapel, Wahpeton, ND. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the chapel. Arrangements have been entrusted with Vertin-Munson Funeral Home, Wahpeton, ND.
Peter was born in Minneapolis, MN January 18, 1940 to Earl N and Dorothy (LeBaron) Sonnesyn. In his youth he was a camp counselor during the summers, a lifeguard, and was a Red Cross Swimming instructor. He was on the Varsity Washburn Wrestling team and was very involved in his local Episcopal Church.
Peter married the love of his life Kathleen Zewiske on September 16, 1961 in Minneapolis Minnesota. Together they raised 3 children; Nicholas 1962, Christopher 1965, and Sarah 1966.
Peter attended Washburn High school graduating in 1958, and then the University of Minnesota obtaining a Bachelor of Science in Economics Degree in 1963.
As a youth Peter obtained his Eagle Scout Award. As an adult he served as State Director, President, and Vice President of NDAHA (North Dakota Amateur Hockey Association). In his retirement he was the Tournament Director for Northern Plains Hockey.
Peter was employed in sales for dental equipment and as an insurance salesman/underwriter but found his niche in community service. He was employed by the Fargo Park District as Rink Director from 1985-1992. In 1992 he was hired to manage Stern Sports Arena for the Head of the Red (BW Blades Hockey Association & southern Valley Figure Skating Club) until his retirement. He loved the game of hockey. To show his dedication he opened the rink before 6am each morning and often stayed late into the evening and worked most weekends and holidays.
Foremost Peter loved his family. He loved to talk and often did not know what a short conversation was. He was an avid reader, (mysteries, sci-fi, poetry, history, newspaper ~ Harry Potter included). He enjoyed playing cards, canning, weight lifting, driving, visiting friends and family. He was a sucker for hard luck stories and often offered those who needed a place to live his lower level apartment rent free.
Peter is survived by son Nicholas and Leyla (Dim) Sonnesyn of Cody WY, son Christopher Sonnesyn of Minneapolis MN, and Daughter Sarah Sonnesyn-Nagel and Donavan Nagel of Andover MN. Grandchildren Nicole Sonnesyn, Kristie (Jordan) Harrington, Holly (Jeb) Smith, Hope Sonnesyn, Nicholas Nagel, Michael (Andrea) Nagel, Alexandra Nagel , Lauren Nagel and Great-granddaughter Cambria Smith.
He was preceded in death by ex-wife Kathleen Sonnesyn 1997, brother Earl (Hap) Sonnesyn 2009, Father Earl Sonnesyn and Mother Dorothy Sonnesyn.