Sonja Felkl
Former Juneau resident Sonja Felkl died unexpectedly at her home in Eugene, Ore., on July 17, 2009. She was 63.
Born Jan. 18, 1946, in Innsbruck, Austria, she grew up in Vienna and immigrated to Juneau on Sept. 12, 1964. She gained citizenship on Nov. 16, 1990, and considered it a great honor to become a U.S. citizen and told people it was "a right to cherish."
In June 1998, she retired from the state of Alaska Division of Personnel after 19 years of service. In 1999, she moved from Juneau to Oregon in search of a sunnier climate.
Her family remembers her as the most loving and caring mother and grandmother, kind hearted, and possessing a gentle and soothing voice. Considerate towards others, she was a special peacemaker and a very spiritual person. She found joy in the simple things in life, and by example, helped others do the same. She was compassionate toward all living things, conscious of preserving Earth's beauty and conservation of natural resources.
She is survived by her daughter, Manuela Felkl, with whom she lived with in Eugene, Ore.; son, Stephan Felkl; grandchildren, Corinna, Joseph and Rain, all of Juneau; and brother, Hans Loible, of Vienna.
Stray and abandoned animals held a special place in her heart, and quite often, her home. For those who wish to do so, a donation to the Gastineau Humane Society may be made in her name.
There will be a "celebration of life" held in Juneau from 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 2, at 9081 Miner Court. For more information call Manuela Felkl at 789-2843 or e-mail Stephan Felkl at info@acerecording.com.