James Stephen Sonberg's Obituary
James “Jim” Stephen Sonberg (79), a cherished father and “Poppi”, passed away on Friday, November 21, 2025. A lifelong resident of St. Petersburg, FL, Jim was born on September 28, 1946, to the late Francis and Jessie “Nina” Sonberg.
Jim attended St. Paul Catholic and Northeast High School, earning his Eagle Scout award alongside his lifelong friend, John Alkire.
He was a Vietnam veteran who served honorably in the US Army as a Platoon Sergeant in the 101st Airborne Infantry Division. Jim was awarded a Purple Heart for Injury from Enemy Fire and a Bronze Star for Heroic Valor.
After recovering in Japan, Jim returned home, graduated from the University of South Florida with a bachelor's degree in marine biology and married Theresa (Gray) Sonberg. Together, Jim and Theresa raised four children: Timothy, Zachary, Matthew and Stephanie.
Jim retired after a 20-year career with the United States Postal Service. He was a poster child of a letter carrier, delivering mail to his beloved customers no matter the weather. During this time, Jim obtained his pilot’s license and years later obtained his captain’s license, which led to a transatlantic adventure to Spain and Portugal.
His creative side was evident through his musical talent and works of art in photography, painting, and wood working. An avid yogi, Jim could pop into a crow pose faster than his grandchildren. An outdoor enthusiast, he loved fishing and biking. Prior to Jim’s Parkinson’s diagnosis, Jim and Cate, his longtime companion, spent several years exploring State and National Parks, including Cades Cove, where Jim volunteered as a campground host.
A humble and kind neighbor, Jim was always willing to lend a hand or hammer to a neighbor in need. His presence and friendly greetings will be sorely missed.
Jim was predeceased by his wife, Susan Sonberg (2015), after 20 years of marriage. Together, Jim and Susan purchased, renovated and managed 10 rental units. They even sold their primary residence for a chance to explore the country and visit friends and family in an RV.
Jim is survived by his son Tim and wife Holly; son Zach and wife Erin; son Matt and wife Karen; daughter Stephanie and husband Fred; step-daughter Lisa and husband Tom; step-daughter Stacy and husband Billy; sisters Jane LeClair and JoAnn Sinclair; grandchildren Erin and Will (Lisa); Ashleigh (Stacy); Leah, Ethan and Olivia (Tim); Morgan and Addison (Zach); Oliver (Matt); Riley, Nina and Cooper (Stephanie).
His laughter, smile and sense of humor will always be remembered and forever missed by all who knew him.
A celebration of Jim’s life will be held on Saturday, January 10, 2026, from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. at the Madeira Beach Recreation Center.
In honor of Jim, the family requests that friends and family share their favorite memory of Jim. To share your favorite memory and view the online obituary, please visit https://www.mossfeaster.com/obituaries.
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