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Sonja Ann Burket, formerly of Martinsburg, went home to be with the Lord early Thursday morning at her home in Auburndale, Fla., after an extended breast cancer illness. She was surrounded by family.
She was born in Roaring Spring, daughter of the late Fred T. "Chock" Shoenfelt Sr. and Verna Irene "Bun" (Glass) Shoenfelt.
Surviving is her loving husband of 61 years, Gerald Burket, whom she married May 9, 1962, at Leamersville Church of the Brethren; three children: Doug Burket (Roberta Serpe) of McHenry, Ill.; Dana (Tom) McDermott of Carnegie, Pa.; and Darin (Cindy) Burket of Spartanburg, S.C. She was a cherished "Gram Sonja" to many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; countless nieces, nephews and cousins; three sisters: Jen (Don) Yingling, Nan (Dana) Meck and Cindy (Jim) May; and the friends and family -- either by blood or by heart -- she welcomed into her home through the years.
She was preceded in death by three brothers: Joe, Fred Jr. and Frank.
Sonja was a graduate of Central High School, Class of 1961. Much of her life work was spent as a homemaker and a partner in the family dairy farm, along with her husband's feed consultant businesses. She was also an active member of Memorial Church of the Brethren in Martinsburg, where she devoted many hours of service as a deacon, secretary, Sunday school teacher and more.
Sonja enjoyed spending time with her family, playing cards and traveling. She will be remembered for her warm smile, her world-class hugs and her unwavering love for family and friends, old and new, who will miss her deeply.
A private memorial service will be held for the family at a future date.
Donations may be made to Memorial Church of the Brethren Deacons' Assistance Fund, Martinsburg.