Donald Sondgeroth

STERLING- Donald C. Sondgeroth, 87, passed away peacefully on December 18th at Parkway Center. Don moved to Sterling in 1947 and began his 40 year career in the refrigeration, heating, and cooling business. He was one of the original co-owners of Central Heating and Cooling where he worked until his retirement. Donald was born on January 11, 1922 in Peterstown, the son of Michael and Teresa (Jeanguenat) Sondgeroth. Don served his country for four years during WWII in the Army Air Corp Air Transport Command. He married Rose Mary Faivre on September 4, 1947 at St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Amboy. She preceded him in death on August 2nd, 1995. Don was an active member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church. He also served on the school board at St. Mary's Grade School and was a strong supporter of Newman High School. Don volunteered with the Boy Scouts of America for many years and was a proud member of the Sterling American Legion for over 60 years. He loved to be with his family, travel, hunt, and fish, and enjoyed his several "grand puppies". He touched many lives through his years of dedication to his family, business and community and will be greatly missed. Don was a devoted family man. He is survived by his five children Donna Cleavelin, of Maryland Heights, MO, Mary Kay (Steve) Alexander, of Potosi, WI, Bob (Cindy) Sondgeroth, of Rock Falls, Tom (Lenae`) Sondgeroth, of Frisco, TX, and Ken Sondgeroth, of Rock Falls, five grandchildren, Matthew, Adam, Ben, Jennie, and Wilson; his sister, Fay Gugerty, of Franklin Grove, IL; and many wonderful nieces and nephews. Don will also be missed by members of his Parkway Center family who cared for him so lovingly over the last few years of his life. Funeral Mass will be held at 10 AM Tuesday, December 22, 2009, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Sterling with the Reverend David Finn, pastor, officiating. Burial will be at Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery. Visitation will be from 4-8 PM Monday at the Schilling Funeral Home, Sterling and from 9-10AM, prior to services Tuesday at the church. A memorial has been established in Don's honor to Hospice of the Rock River Valley.