Obituary of Sunny McCollum
McCollum, Sonja ‘Sunny’ Irene 1941 - 2022
It is with the deepest sadness that we announce the passing of Sunny (Sonja) McCollum (nee Hunter) on Wednesday, February 2, 2022 in her 81st year. As a devoted wife for 63 years, she is now reunited with her forever sweetheart, the late Neil (2021). Loving mother of the late Laurie, the late Kim, Randy (Charlotte), Wendy (Warren), Jamie (Brenda), and Janene (Mike); and Charlie, who she loved like a daughter. She was a treasured Grandma, Grammie and Gram to Jason (Parshin), Mark (Juliana), James (Casey), Sonja (Mike), Neil (Candace), Christalynn (John), Sami (Billy), Jesse (Steph), Jordie (Olie), Courtney (Ethan), Carly (Isaac), Brett, and Brock. Special Great-Grandma to Isla, Callum, Johnny, Clark, Ethan, Reign and Isabella. She will be dearly missed by her brother Terry and sister-in-law Ruth; brother-in-law Glenn and sisters-in-law Val, Louise, and Peggy. Also predeceased by her brother Larry (the late Jane), brothers-in-law Ron and Dane, and sister-in-law Aleta (the late Gerald). Sunny will be dearly missed by many nieces, nephews, and cousins, as well as by the countless friends, whom she loved as family.
Sunny first ‘spotted’ Neil at the Smithville ball diamond, at the young age of 13. It would be but a few short years before they would become sweethearts, and later marry in November 1958. They made Bismarck their home for most of their lives together, raising 6 children and running their business Neil McCollum Ltd. She was passionate about playing hockey, sewing, knitting and most of all watching her grandkids grow and find their way. Sunny was a big part of her community, dedicating much of her time to helping others. Whether coaching baseball, making pies for church bake sales or hosting children through the Fresh Air Fund, she was always there to lend a helping hand. Her door was always open, the tea was always hot and her love was unconditional. She was one of a kind, and will always be carried in our hearts!
Two sparrows in a hurricane, have found each other again...
Special thanks to the many individuals who provided her care and support during her time of need. Due to current Covid restrictions, visitation is required to be by booked appointment. Visitation at Merritt Funeral Home, 287 Station Street, Smithville on Sunday, February 6th. You may prebook one of the limited visitation times on Sunday, February 6th by following the link provided in Sunny’s obituary on the funeral home website merritt-fh.com, or by calling the funeral home at 905-957-7031. A private family funeral will be held Monday, February 7th at St. Ann’s Community Church with interment at Bismark Cemetery. For those wishing to view the funeral service online, follow the link below where the service will begin at approximately 2:30 pm on Monday, February 7th. In memory of Sunny, donations to the St. Ann’s Community Church, Pelham Community Church, or McNally House Hospice, would be appreciated by her family.
Click here for a recording of Sunny's funeral service when available.
