Obituary of Gary E. Sonnelitter

Gary E. Sonnelitter passed away on March 16, 2025, at Buffalo General Medical Center. Born on April 14, 1947, in Lockport, he was the son of Daniel C. and Evelyn (Goodman) Sonnelitter.  

Gary proudly served in the U.S. Navy, completing two tours during the Vietnam War from 1967 to 1973 aboard the USS Ticonderoga.  For his service, he was awarded the National Defense Service Medal and the Vietnam Service Medal. He went on to work for Delphi GM for 30 years as an Industrial Electrician and played a key role in establishing the Instrument Shop.  

Gary was devoted to his family and will be deeply missed by all who knew him. He is survived by his beloved wife of 58 years, Laurie A. (Oesterle) Sonnelitter; daughters Leslie (Kyle) Drake and Stacey Sonnelitter; grandchildren Lauren and Jared Drake, and Haley, Leo, Madison, and Alison Pynn; and his cherished dog, Angel. He was predeceased by his sister, Ann O’Donnell.  

Family and friends are invited to call on Saturday, March 22nd, from 10 AM – 12 Noon at Prudden & Kandt Funeral Home, 242 Genesee St., Lockport, where a service will follow at 12 Noon. In lieu of flowers, donations to Against All Odds Animal Alliance, Inc. would be greatly appreciated by the family at https://www.paypal.com/donate?token=qY6HHrOlIa5hBIV3h9H8RcPjch0hHynk13pyhXgDkVjmSPJs3Vr92ZtDd25vDnHv4QilmfinRBSNUW3B.