Sonja K. Cassady, 73, passed away peacefully on March 17th, 2021.

Sonja is survived by her brother, Rick Cassady of Georgetown, GA, niece Morgan Gaines of Adel, GA, and great nephew Rhett Gaines. She was loved and adored by her "kids", Nicholas, Amanda, and Katelyn Falcone, and Taylor Freedline.

Sonja was born in Portage, Indiana. She graduated from Portage High School in 1965. She graduated from Goshen College in 1969 with a degree in French Language. In 1996, she earned a Masters of Education in Developmental Counseling.

Sonja worked for Elkhart Community Schools for 30 years as a French and English teacher, and later volunteered as a counselor at Mary Daly. She was accompanied every day by one of three service dogs- Mahoney, Boiler, and Disney. In 1992 Sonja received the prestigious American Teacher Award by the Walt Disney Company and was flown to California with her first service dog to accept the honor.  She also was named teacher of the year 3 times by the Elkhart school systems.

Although Sonja battled with her health from a young age, it never slowed her down. As a young child she was diagnosed with polio and spent 15 months in an iron lung. In 1994 Sonja was diagnosed with Breast Cancer and had a mastectomy. She remained cancer free for over 27 years.

Sonja often volunteered her time taking her pack of certified therapy dogs to Elkhart General Hospital to participate in pet therapy.  She also enjoyed painting, calligraphy, gardening and spending time with her many dogs and cats.

Sonja wished for people to remember her positive and giving spirit.

There will be no visitation or services. She requested that in lieu of a funeral or flowers, that donations be made directly to Elkhart County Humane Society.

Billings Funeral Home, 812 Baldwin St., Elkhart, IN 46514 is assisting the family.

For those wishing to share a memory or send a condolence, may do so at www.billingsfuneralhome.com