Sonya G. "Sonie" Baltz

CORVALLIS - Sonya Baltz, 71, passed away peacefully in her sleep Friday morning, October 9, at her home in Corvallis. She had been diagnosed with breast cancer in March and spent the last 8 months of her life fighting it. But she never lost her spirit or her sense of humor.

Sonie was born January 18, 1944, to Victor and Bettie Lewis in Winfield Kansas while Vic was overseas fighting in World War II. After Vic returned home the family moved to Hayfield, MN where Sonie spent most of her childhood. She was soon joined by siblings Vickie, Kevin, and Jackie. They later relocated to Red Wing, MN where she graduated from Red Wing High School, then attended and graduated from St. John's Hospital nursing program.

In 1976 she moved with her husband and children to Montana, which she quickly fell in love with and never wanted to leave. In 1978 she began working at Marcus Daly Memorial Hospital and spent the next 33 years giving excellent care to her patients. She finally retired for good in 2012.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Orville Baltz; her father, Vic; sister, Vickie; step-son, Wayne Baltz; nephew, Michael Longsdorf; and 3 infant children.  Surviving is her partner of 23 years, Joe Golay of Corvallis; her mother, Bettie Lewis; brother, Kevin Lewis; and sister, Jackie Brenne all of Red Wing; children, Michele (Don) of Corvallis, Rob (Dianna) of Seattle, and Jeremy (Cassie) of Nickerson, MN; 10 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren.

Sonie was happiest exploring the beautiful Montana mountains, trying new recipes, listening to Eric Clapton, and most of all spending time with her family, friends, and beloved pets.

A celebration of her life will be held Monday, October 19th at 2pm at the Daly Leach Chapel community room. Come and share some memories of Sonie's life with us. A light meal will be provided.