March 18, 1987 - January 10, 2021
Sonya Elizabeth Boeser
Age 33, of Richfield. Sonya Attended Assumption and Blessed Trinity Catholic elementary and middle schools. She graduated from the Academy of Holy Angels in 2005 with High Honors. She graduated University of Minnesota Minneapolis in 2010 with a BA in Art History. While at the University, she had a student Internship position with Goldstein Museum of Design.
Sonya was active in her church of Assumption with music as a choir member and cantor. She was active with VASA Junior Swedish folk dancing group that grandparents Mark and Dianne Johnson introduced her to, up through age 18. She was also an active member of Junior Swedish fiddlers with her brother David.
She worked in various jobs that were mainly retail including Roberts Shoes in Minneapolis, Arc’s Value Village, Food Sample Demonstrator at Sam’s Club and Cub Foods, Crayola experience in the Mall of America, Bubba Gump Shrimp gift shop.
Sonya loved art, she loved to create and share her art work. Her most recent project was the decorative painting of river rocks, some with inspirational messages that she would leave in public places or give to others when the occasion came up. She painted lovely watercolor scenes as a volunteer for long-term care facility residents.
She loved David Bowie and Monty Python. Her favorite movie was “Labyrinth” starring David Bowie as the Goblin King. She loved to be silly along with Monty Python movies and sketches.
Sonya had epilepsy (seizures) and struggled daily with mental illness. Her struggles were real and raw, however her resilience in picking up and working on moving forward was without equal. She was unique in her gifts and struggles.
Her time on earth was shortened, but her spirit, now unencumbered with fallible physicality lives on in our hearts and in the universe.
Survived by father, Mark (Heather) Boeser; brother, David (Mary Jane) Boeser; grandfather, Mark Johnson; grandmother, Sue Boeser; step-grandmother, Nora Houser; step-siblings, Alex (Brook) Brennan , Bailey (Will) Daffner and Tony Brennan; aunt, Shawn (Jo) Boeser-Hutton; uncle, Todd (Michelle) Boeser; great-aunt, Rita (Rick) Moe; many cousins, nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by, mother, Melissa Johnson Boeser; grandmother, Dianne Johnson; and grandfather, Rodney Boeser.
Click here to view Sonya’s service.
Interment 2:30 PM at Assumption Catholic Cemetery, next to her beloved mother. Friends are welcome to join the family for the graveside service. Please respect social distancing and wear a mask.
Dear Mark Johnson and Family,
I am sorry to hear of your loss. I hold your family in peaceful thoughts.
Nancy E. Lee
God bless you and your Unity South service as a Prayer Chaplain, comfort and inspiration to all, Nancy.
— Mark J.
Dear Mark and family, So sorry to hear about your granddaughter. I only met her briefly and she seemed such a lovely person. It is hard when someone so young passes on. We will hold you in our prayers.
Thank you so much, Don. —Mark J.
Very sorry to hear about your loss. No parent should have to endure this type of loss.
Thanks Tim.
She was a bright light amid her struggles. So sorry she is gone too soon. She will be remembered.
Mark B and family, we remember a joyful Sonya during weekends at the Born Cabins up north and for NYE and other gatherings at your house. We are so sorry for your loss. You are in our thoughts and hearts. Hugs to you!
My heart goes out to you and your family.
May your days be filled with wonderful memories from family and friends.
God loves his children, may you find peace only Jesus can give during this difficult time.
Tom and I would like to visit with you when the time is right.
Love you all
Mark and David,
I am so very sorry to hear this but I also know that she was really struggling so I am comforted with the knowledge that she is at peace. Sending peace and prayers for Sonya and for your entire family.
David, Mark, Sue–my heart goes out to you all. Losing Missy 20 years ago is still so fresh. I pray that Sonya is reunited with her sweet mom and held in the arms of love and peace forever.
Mark and Family, I am holding you in my heart and prayers!
Take care and God bless you all.
Sincerely,
Holly Circle-Steffen
So thankful for your thoughtfulness, Holly. — Mark J.
I attend church with Grandpa (Mark Johnson). Sad to see this loss and so appreciate that the decision was made to share an obituary that was honest and brought Sonya’s light to those who didn’t know her. She clearly had great taste in music and movies. ☺️ It’s Also evident was a giver and cared for others. I believe that many of us leave our earthly existence when our lessons have been learned—we’ve reached a spiritual level of understanding. Sadly, some people learn those lessons faster. based on what you shared, Sonya was one of those. I wish you peace as you transition to your life without her physical presence.
Beautifully expressed, Missy. Thank you. Mark J.
Dear Mark Johnson and the rest of Sonya’s family. Sharon and I send our deepest condolences and hope you are doing alight. It very sad when a young person feels so lost, and there is so little that we can do. Sharon and I hold you in our prayers.
My Dear Mark and family. No, I didn’t know her but this much I knew. She was a child of God and loved by her family. This family has been through enough sadness but strength will come in days ahead. I love you Mark and hope you will heal along with the rest. Your friend, Marilyn Kloncz
My heart goes out to you all. I’m praying that God will touch you with his love and comfort. Sonya will always hold a special place in my heart. Please know that I am sending my love to each and every one of you.
Mark, David, Mark Johnson and family,
I’m sorry to hear about Sonya. I remember watching “Labyrinth” at her birthday party. You and Sonya are all in my prayers. May she rest In peace.
Mark, David and extended family:
We are so very sorry for your loss, we want you to know we are thinking of you and sending prayers for strength and comfort.
Mark and Family –
I just saw this and I’m so sorry to see this. It sounds like Sonja was a bright light with her music and art. Thank you for sharing her story. I remember her playing with Madeline when she was just a baby. Sonja was so sweet with her.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
So sorry to hear this! I had Sonya in music classes at BT (David, too!) Lovely girl. I am glad she is at peace, but the world is poorer for her loss.