RESERVE OFFICER DENNIS C. SONNER

BADGE 84, ID 9075

SDPD 02/02/1971 - 11/06/1978

08/23/1928 - 04/01/2009

Dennis C. Sonner passed away in his La Playa home on April 1, 2009. He was 80 years old. 

Born in Akron, Ohio, on August 23, 1928, to Ivan and Mae Sonner, Dennis lived a Midwest childhood. As a teenager during World War II, Dennis went to school and worked as a machinist apprentice for Goodyear Tire and Rubber Co. 

At 18, Dennis enlisted in the United States Coast Guard where he achieved the rank of machinist mate petty officer second class. After receiving an honorable discharge in 1949, Dennis returned to Akron, school, and Goodyear Tire. Through company programs, Dennis earned a 1953 bachelor's degree in engineering from Akron University. 

In 1950, Dennis became interested in Freemasonry and in 1951 was raised to the degree of Master Mason at Joppa Lodge in Akron, where he remained a brother in good standing until his death. 

In 1956, Dennis moved a young family to California where he held jobs as a machinist at Ryan, Rohr and Northrup Grumman. Seeking a better life for his family, Dennis studied for and achieved a California general contractor's license and in 1961, Dennis began buying lots in the Point Loma area, building homes on them and selling them. With his profits from homes, Dennis purchased lots in Ocean Beach and built apartments on them. At one time, Dennis owned over 100 rental units in the beach area. 

Able to retire young, Dennis became interested in law enforcement and in 1974 completed all requirements to become a reserve San Diego police officer. On two occasions, 1975 and 1976, Dennis received awards for 500 hours donated. 

Dennis was preceded in death by his wife of 58 years, Helen. With Helen by his side, Dennis lived a complete life. Avid motorhomers, they traveled the country each year, from May to September. Along with their beautiful home in La Playa, they also maintained homes on Portage Lakes in Barberton, Ohio, and at Lake Martinez on the Colorado River. Dennis is survived by his two sons, Michael and Dennis, and two grandchildren, Dennis and Allysa. 

THE THIN BLUE LINE

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