Raymond A. Sonntag ’65

Raymond A. Sonntag ’65 passed away in Shelburne Falls, Massachusetts, on March 2. Ray came to Dartmouth from Hicksville High School in New York; he was an engineering science major and then received his master’s in industrial engineering from NYU. The majority of Ray’s career was spent with Northrup Grumman Aerospace Corp. as a systems analyst, where his work had an impact on the design of the F-14 Tomcat, stealth fighter jet, and B-2 Spirit bomber. Ray married his high school sweetheart, Mary, in 1966; they raised their nine children in Huntington, New York. In 1992 he moved his family to western Massachusetts. Ray will be remembered for his skillful work around the house, from building decks and play structures to major renovations. He was an outstanding chess player and when his children weren’t enough competition, he would often beat the computer. As a devout Catholic, Ray maintained a leadership role in Nocturnal Adoration on Long Island and continued his devotion in Massachusetts. For more than 30 years Ray donated blood once a month to help support the American Red Cross. Ray and Mary opened their home to many foster children. Ray was admired and loved by many. He is survived by children Daniel, Kristine, Joseph, Virginia, Jon, Joshua, April, and Holly as well as 31 grandchildren.