Wesley Sonmore

In the warm embrace of a brother's love, I, Russell Sonmore, bid farewell to my remarkable brother, Wesley Sonmore, who departed this life on April 8, 2025. Born on September 18, 1962, in San Mateo, California, Wesley, or Wes as we loved to call him, was a beacon of light in our lives, an embodiment of adventure, and a man whose heart was as vast as the journeys he undertook.

Wesley made the world his playground, with his life being an extraordinary tapestry woven with adventures, friendships, and a profound love for the Lord. From the sandy beaches of San Mateo to the bustling streets of Bonney Lake, Washington, where he spent 40 years of his life, Wes was never one to shy away from the allure of new experiences. His life was a testament to the verse in the Book of John, "I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full" (John 10:10). He cherished every moment, every relationship, every adventure, and found joy in the simple pleasures of life.

A man of many talents and interests, Wesley had a penchant for collecting sports memorabilia, antiques, old signs, and guns. He was an avid photographer, a food enthusiast, a road trip lover, and an ever-ready friend who was just a phone call away. His love for the outdoors was evident in his passion for hunting, hiking, and fishing. Always one to push boundaries, Wes fearlessly took to the slopes as a daredevil skiing fanatic, searched for UFOs, hunted Bigfoot, and avidly supported my musical pursuits.

The duality of Wesley's career was as fascinating as the man himself. For over 40 years, he worked with Bob Grader and his family, a journey that began with pressure washing roofs and diversified into the brewing industry with the launch of Elk Head Brewing. Concurrently, he dedicated his services to the State of Washington from 1987 until his retirement in 2018, spending his entire State career at Rainier School in Buckley. His dedication to his work remained unwavering, even as he stood resolute in his beliefs during the COVID pandemic.

Wesley's devotion to God was an important cornerstone of his life. He spent his life sharing about Jesus, collecting spiritual books, and earnestly praying for the needs of others. His faith was a reflection of the verse in the Book of Matthew, "Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven" (Matthew 5:16).

Wesley's life was a beautiful journey, enriched by the relationships he cherished, the adventures he embarked upon, and the faith he held dear. He is survived by me, his brother Russell, and joins our father George, mother Margarita, and brother Lowell, in eternal rest.

As we mourn the loss of Wesley Sonmore, let us also celebrate his extraordinary life, his unyielding spirit, and his unwavering faith. We invite you to share your memories of Wes, upload photos, and celebrate his life on his memorial page. Let us remember him together, for in our hearts, he will always live on.