Obituaries

John Robert Sorg of Eau Claire passed away unexpectedly on March 30th, 2026, he was born in Owatonna MN, on October 4th, 1971.

John attended High School in Eau Claire, WI. In 1996 he earned his associates degree, graduating with honors from the CVTC’s HVAC -heating and cooling program. He was a member of the Sheet Metal Workers Local 18 and worked in this field for nearly 30 years.

He married Bonetta, his High School sweetheart and one true love on October 13th, 1990. He and Bonetta built a beautiful life together and welcomed their daughter Kennedy in July of 1993.

John had a deep love for music (all music) including concerts but could rarely be talked into showing off his “lack of” dance moves. He loved comedy especially the sharp wit of George Carlin. John enjoyed traveling, with Hawaii being “the place” that awed him the most.

He had many hobbies over the years including assembling and collecting model cars, NASCAR, golf, fishing, boating, ice racing and four-wheeling. Back in the day he was an avid bowler and proudly earned a flashy ring in 1996 for his nearly perfect score of 299. A lifelong car enthusiast (though a loyal Chevy man all the way) he attended the Iola Car Show many times.

John always dreamed of being a stuntman, likely the reason he was described as fearless and loved living life to the fullest. Things most people would think of as being reckless and crazy, he called fun and was all in. His favorite motto being tuck and roll.

Children “the littles” adored Uncle John. He would sit right down at their level and truly play. John effortlessly entered their world of imagination, making everything adventurous, magical, exciting and fun.

But above all, John was a great man with a huge generous heart. He was a loving husband and father. He was street smart, book smart, creative, and endlessly resourceful. John had a natural ability to fix just about anything.

He’d help anyone who needed it -friend or stranger- without hesitation nor judgement. Blessed with the gift of gab he made friends everywhere he went, especially at his favorite “Social Club”. His laugh was always hearty and contagious, the kind of laugh that filled a room and stayed with you long after.

John was a jokester and a prankster with a twinkle in his eye. He made life lighter for the people around him, leaving behind a legacy of unconditional kindness, endless humor and above all, his way of wholehearted living.

John is survived by his wife and best friend, Bonetta; his greatest treasure, Daughter Kennedy Sorg (Jason Porter); great-nephew, Xavier; great-nieces, Emma and Journey; all of whom he loved and cared for as his own.

He is also survived by his mother, Linda Bichsel; father, Jerald Sorg; stepmother, Karen; sisters, Lori Doerhoefer and Jennifer Fransway (Thomas Walker) and brother, Joshua Sorg (Natasha). Peter Crooker “bonus” Father-in-Law. Numerous uncles, aunts and cousins. His many nieces and nephews, all of whom held a special place within his heart.

John was preceded in death by his stepfather, Thomas Bichsel; grandparents, Eugene, Leona, Robert, and Arlene. As well as his Godfather, Uncle Ron; and brother-in-Law, Randy. Special mention of his beloved dog, Cooper, who no doubt greeted him with a wagging tail.

Our heartfelt appreciation to the Critical Care staff at Mayo, the hospital Chaplin fondly referred to as “Chaps” as well as the UW Organ and Tissue Donation Program.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday May 10th from 12:00 – 4:00 pm at The Alibi Lounge 2112 Esmond Rd Eau Claire WI 54703.