We Remember
HARSCHE, Sonya
May 14, 1958 — July 25, 2023
Sunny Doris Harsche was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba on May 14, 1958, and died in Vancouver, BC on July 25, 2023.
Sonya is survived by her mother Irmgard Harsche; her sister Ursula Dobell; her nephew Michael Dobell (Shauna) and grandnephews Matthew & Tanner, and grandniece Kylee; her brother Peter (Mai); and her sister Sandy (Mike) and stepniece Caitlyn and nephew Frankie. Sonya was predeceased by her father, Gabriel, in November 2000.
A large portion of Sonya’s life was devoted to her career as a teacher and principal, which brought her much joy and satisfaction. Sonya was artistic, creative, and had a wonderful flair for decorating. She loved gardening, boating, swimming, and camping with her friends. Her greatest passion was her dog “Zoe” and her little trailer “Snoopy”. Sonya faced immense sadness throughout her years but persevered by taking on challenges with passion and a determined spirit, living a full and productive life. The family wishes to thank the doctors, nurses, and staff at St. Paul’s in Vancouver for everything they did to try to save her life, and thank you to all her friends for their loving care and support.
Sonya was a bright light, and she will leave a huge hole in our lives. We all have great memories and lots of stories, so she will never be forgotten.
A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please donate to your local SPCA.
If you wish to send a condolence, post photos, or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area called “Condolences”.
Sunny always was and always will be part of our family. We fell in love with her when she was 18 years old and even though there were pockets of missed time – we never stopped. Our reconnection again a few years ago brought so much solace to my sister, my mom and I. We are so very sorry for your loss Harsche family – Sunny is shining her bright light with the angels.
With much love, Sharon, Jan and Lil Lommer
Sunny was her namesake. Full of sunshine, fun and laughter! We worked together for many years and Sunny was my boss and my friend. She was an amazing administrator who was passionate about her job. Her dedication, compassion and caring ways were felt throughout our school community. We had so much fun visiting her in Kelowna and I have so many fond memories of Sunny’s joyful, charismatic ways. She will be missed, but never forgotten. Sincere condolences to Sunny’s family.
As a teacher on her staff, Sunny was my principal for 8 years- a lifetime in the Surrey school district. I count myself both lucky and blessed to have known and worked with her for those years-I often wonder where all those years have gone, but they passed by all too quickly, and they were amongst the happiest of my career.
You were a happy, joyous, and loving person to be around. We will miss you terribly. Camping with you and snoop dog , and the yearly river float will never be the same . We will always have you in our hearts. Condolences to your family and all how new you.
My sincere condolences to Sunny’s family at this time. Sunny was an amazing personality, full of light, charisma, caring and fun. She was a supportive Principal, full of terrific ideas and innovations, and a great friend. Sunny will be fondly remembered.
Sunny is a bright light for me. In the short time I got to spend with her before the plan was put into motion I was fortunate to see her in her joy of life and fear of all the other stuff. I will remember her love of Zoe and Snoopy while enjoying her captivating smile. I tip the wine glass to you sweetheart. E
I am so sorry to hear of Sunny’s passing!…I just found out today! She lit up room and was a good friend to me and my daughters.
Please let me know if her celebration of life is scheduled for a future date. We lost touch when she relocated to the Okanagan and I moved to California..