John D. Sonowski

John D. Sonowski, 89, passed away peacefully at his Barnegat home on Friday, September 19, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. Born in Newark, NJ, to the late Walter and Lucille Sonowski, John spent his early years in Newark before raising his family in Edison.

A proud veteran of the United States Army, John served his country with honor and carried that sense of duty and integrity into every aspect of his life. After completing his degree at Seton Hall University, he dedicated 38 years as an auditor for the State of New Jersey, earning the respect of colleagues for his diligence, fairness, and quiet professionalism.

John’s devotion to his family was matched only by his lifelong passion for sports. An ardent fan of the Detroit Lions, Tigers, and Red Wings, he rarely missed a game and loved sharing spirited conversations about stats and players with anyone willing to join in. Whether he was cheering from his living room or discussing the latest scores with friends and family, John’s enthusiasm was infectious.

Above all else, John will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. Nothing brought him greater joy than supporting his grandchildren—attending their sporting events and school plays, admiring their artwork, and celebrating each of their accomplishments with pride and delight. He leaves behind his beloved wife of 61 years, Patricia; two devoted children, Jill Ann and her husband Jim Takacs, and Troy and his wife Karina Sonowski; and five cherished grandchildren who brought him endless joy—Ryan, Connor, Alyssa, Laila, and Ava. He is also survived by his twin sister, Regina Kahn, and his elder sister, Barbara Sonowski , along with many nieces, nephews, and dear friends who will carry his memory forward.

John had a simple but heartfelt farewell that became his trademark: whenever parting ways, he would smile and say, “Be good.” Those two words captured his gentle wisdom and the kindness he offered to everyone he met.

A Funeral Mass will be offered on Tuesday, September 23, 2025, at 11:00 AM at St. Mary’s Church, 747 West Bay Avenue, Barnegat, NJ 08005. (www.BarnegatFH.com) 

In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations to a charity of your choice or to a veterans’ organization in John’s honor.

John’s life was a testament to loyalty, humility, and steadfast love—a legacy that will continue to inspire all who knew him.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of John D. Sonowski, please visit our floral store.