"Charlene you have our sincere sympathy and prayers. Sonny was always close to Scott and he considered Sonny a second father."
In loving memory of
Sonny Gehring
January 28, 1936 - November 28, 2022
Wilhelm Burdell Gehring was born on January 28, 1936 in Denison, Iowa, the son of Wilhelm and Leone (Jochims) Gehring. He was baptized on April 9, 1936 and later confirmed his faith on March 18, 1951 at Zion Lutheran Church in Denison. He received his education from Denison Community School.
On June 13, 1954, Sonny was united in marriage to Charlene Pries at Zion Lutheran Church in Denison. To this union, they were blessed with two children: Tonya and Wilhelm Joseph. They made their home around Denison.
In 1960, Sonny was the first employee hired to work for IBP in Denison at the start of the construction. He also worked at Farmland in Denison and sold Walnut Grove Feed in Crawford County. Sonny farmed for many years until his retirement in 1998.
Sonny was an avid college football fan, especially the Nebraska Cornhuskers. He enjoyed playing cards and always looked forward to drinking coffee with his friends at Burger King. He was a lifelong member of Zion Lutheran Church in Denison.
Sonny passed away peacefully on Monday, November 28, 2022 at Crawford County Memorial Hospital in Denison, attaining the age of 86 years and 10 months. He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Wilhelm Joseph "Billy Joe" Gehring; and sister, Maxine Boeck.
Left to cherish his memory is his loving wife, Charlene Gehring of Denison; daughter, Tonya (Gehring) Rateau of North, Virginia; grandson, Travis Cipriana and his wife Joan of Spring, Texas; granddaughter, Holly Russell of Richmond, Virginia; and brother-in-law, Gaylord Boeck of Schleswig; other relatives and friends.
A Funeral Service will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Friday, December 2, 2022 at Zion Lutheran Church with a visitation one hour prior to the service from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Interment will be held at a later date. Memorials may be directed to the family.
Tributes
"Sunny was truly one of a kind. He was loved by very many people. I?ve had a chance to make a frame and had a picture of his son riding a motorcycle and we gave that to Charlene and Sonny. I?ll never forget the look that they both have of your face. That picture really meant a lot to them and they really mean a lot to so many people. Charlene you are in our thoughts and prayers and many hugs to you and your family. Bob and Sandy Wulf"
"Charlene, so sorry to hear of Sonny,s passing. You have my deepest sympathy. Al Olson"
"Dear Charlene and family, we were so surprised to learn of Sonny's passing. One thing I'll never forget is the very first membership directory Zion did back in 1985. As the co-ordinator, I was working the night you guys, Bill & Leone and your son, Bill came in for your picture. The photographer thought three generations of "Bills" needed a special picture. After your son's tragic death, we were able to work with the photo company to get you copies of "The Three Bills." Also, in the current December issue of Zion's newsletter is the photo of Zion members assembled for the 150th anniversary photo. It was easy to find you and Sonny, Charlene! All of these memories are so special. Our sympathies and prayers go out for you! Renee & Butch Miller "
"You have my deepest! My thoughts and prayers are with your entire family."
"Charlene and family. Keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers. I always enjoyed visiting with you guys. Going to miss him
Mary Ann Neppl "
"Sonny was on of the best people in the world. When Sonny and Charlene moved from their house to the apartment my son Derek and I helped them move. We always had a great time. Sonny was one of a kind. RIP Sonny Sue, Mark and Derek Jensen "
"Charlene and family you are in my prayers. Always enjoyed our visits. Sonny had a strong will to live and stayed so active till the last few months. Stay strong dear friend!!!"