In Memory of Jonathan Andrew Sommerfeld

Jonathan Andrew Sommerfeld, 21, Basehor, KS, formerly of Shawnee, KS, passed peacefully in his sleep in the early morning hours of Monday, August 2, 2021 in his home. His beautiful heart simply quit beating due to an undetected genetic heart condition. The visitation and Celebration of Life will be held at Country Club Christian Church on Monday, August 9. Visitation will be held from 2:30 to 4:00 P.M and the service at 4 P.M.

Jonathan was born February 23, 2000, in Overland Park, KS. to adoring parents Marvin and Lori Sommerfeld.

Jonathan is survived by his parents, Marvin and Lori, his brother Josh (Taylor), his sisters Jennifer (Shane Stewart) and Jillian (Keaton Jensen), his cherished nieces Lillian and Layna Sommerfeld, grandparents Sharon and Darrell Cantrell and Marguerite Sommerfeld and many aunts, uncles and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his Grandpa, Bob Sommerfeld.

Jonathan (Jono, Buddy) lived a full life in his 21 years. He loved fiercely, gave selflessly, smiled infectiously and jumped at the chance to make others feel loved and accepted. He made an impact on so many and the stories have poured in about his servant heart.

As a close family friend stated after hearing the cause of death, “Jono gave so much of his heart to so many people that he forgot to save some for himself.”

He spent his last weekend at the lake with his close friends doing what he loved. Upon his return to KC, he spent his Sunday evening at his grandparents’ home fishing and telling stories. He was so proud to tell all that gathered about the job offer he had just received. He was determined and proud. He walked the family property with his dad to discuss projects they wanted to accomplish together. He was always willing to give his time and talent to anyone that wanted or needed it.

Jono was getting ready to start his final year at Kansas State University. He was preparing to move to a new home in Manhattan, KS next weekend.

Jono had a lot of passions. He began playing soccer at age four. He played club soccer and was a proud varsity athlete for Shawnee Mission Northwest Highschool.

Jono followed his older brother as a state qualifying pole vaulter. This boy could fly high. He went to State Finals his Junior and Senior year. And, if you asked him he was way better than his brother.

Jonathan was on the select drumline for the SMNW marching band. Every year he would say, “I HATE BAND,” but he would continue to try out and was selected each year. As his drumline coach said, “He was the first to arrive and the last to leave every single practice.” He was such a great drummer and cherished the memories.

Jonathan was an avid outdoorsman. Being outside was in his soul and made him who he is. He loved to fish and hunt. He accompanied his older brother through the fields and streams of Kansas. He cherished those times. He loved his time at “the farm” in Fort Scott, Kansas with his siblings and cousins.

He cherished his sisters and was extremely proud of them. He would drop anything to spend time with them. He was excited to learn he was to be a groomsman in his sister Jennifer’s upcoming wedding. Jillian and Jono loved their music and singing together. Jillian has a great voice. Jono, not so much. It didn’t stop him from singing and it certainly didn’t stop her from being glad he loved it so.

He worked for Lithko for four years and last Friday he received an offer letter to join them after graduation. He was so proud of the offer. Lithko was proud of him too. 

Jono did not need or want to be the center of attention. We doubt he knew the beautiful impact he had on others. He was humble. He listened intently and those in his presence felt “heard.”  When he shared, his words were wise and thoughtful. His humor was perfectly timed and his smile was ever present.

He knew his mom’s three rules and he would state them proudly every time he left to do something. “I know Mom -- have fun, make good choices and be smart.” He lived those rules to the fullest.

To continue Jonathan’s legacy, please take time to be kind, inclusive, love fiercely and give selflessly. He would want you all to look around you and “notice” others. Listen to them. Live life to the fullest, help others. Turn the music up, roll the windows down and have a great time. 

Jonathan Andrew Sommerfeld will be greatly missed but never forgotten. His memory will live on in the many he impacted.