Reinhilde Sonja Everett

Reinhilde " Sonja" Everett was born May 27, 1930 in Munich, Germany. Her early life growing up in the heart of Bavaria had just the right balance of excitement and stability. The close knit neighborhood housed the usual tradesmen as well as a first class bakery, movie theater, and restaurants enticing all who passed with those familiar aromas that define a culture and its people. Bavarians were bonded by a dialect that most Germans in other parts of the country could neither speak nor understand. As strict believers in the adage that "it takes a village to raise a child," most parents had no objection to a fellow Bavarian scolding their child if they thought they were doing something wrong---such as loitering outside the candy shop rather than heading straight for school. The children accepted this and realized that even in these unwelcome rebukes there was a sense of order and belonging.

Circumstances quickly changed, however, with the outbreak of war. Her beloved father and three older brothers were drafted. Ration cards were issued and Sonja became the designated shopper, an activity she took seriously at the time and relished throughout her adult life. When it was evident that Munich would continue to be bombed, Sonja, her mother and two younger siblings were evacuated to a country farm. The host family was welcoming and housed the city dwellers without question. The farm children loved their new playmates and were fascinated by the somewhat embellished stories Sonja told them of city life.

Sonja was certain she would never again leave her beloved city or family, but this all changed when she met Walt. His quiet, reserved demeanor stood in stark contrast to the outgoing vivacious Sonja. Ironically, his military career took her far away from all she knew and loved, but it also opened the door to world full of new adventures and experiences.

While stationed in Maine, Sonja joined the German Wives Club and after her second year of membership was asked to run for president. She won unanimously and even served a second term before the family moved to France. After several more European stints, Walt was sent to Mountain Home and from there to Viet Nam as an adviser. Before he left he made Sonja promise to get her American citizenship. He stressed that as a German National, her rights would be severely limited should something happen to him. She studied diligently, and learned all about the Founding Fathers and our Constitution. She passed the test and was sworn in. As a special surprise Walt was given leave so he could witness this momentous occasion.

All too soon Walt had to return to Viet Nam and her daughter became occupied with school. With only the family's loyal German Shepherd to keep her company, the house seemed unbearably quiet. Fate stepped in, however, when she saw an Albertson ad for a cake decorator and decided to apply. Unfortunately that job was filled but they did need a baker. Although she was an excellent cook and baked scrumptious cakes for the club ladies, she knew nothing about commercial baking. Even she was surprised when she heard herself agree to take the job. Although she enjoyed her job and was glad for the opportunity to do something that benefitted the family, the years of early mornings and long hours began to take a toll. She agreed with Walt that she would look for something part time. As luck would have it, the head baker at the M&W Market at Collister needed someone to fill in for him on his days off, Sonja was a perfect fit. She and Nels were great workmates He found her to be dependable, knowledgeable in her craft and hard working. For the next 20 years she never missed a day of work and retired just shy of her seventieth birthday.

Sonja was a talented, confident individual who always challenged herself by acquiring new skills. She took up ceramics, painted beautiful oil pictures, and not least of all designed and sewed runway worthy outfits for her daughter's Barbie and Ken dolls. A lifelong animal lover she donated her time and money for their well being. She had a great sense of humor, loved to laugh, spoke her truth and lived her life honestly and without regret. Known for being straightforward and direct, most are aware of her favorite saying, "now get to the point and quit pussyfooting around." Sonja is survived by her daughter Leonita "Lea" Taylor (Eric); her brother Walter Bobaz (Maria); sister-in-law Paulina Bobaz (Mario) and her beloved nieces and nephews