On Wednesday, September 27, 2017, Sonja Leann Brekke, 52, of Mertzon Texas, passed away at home with her Mother by her side. She had been ill for quite awhile but always had a positive outlook and a determination to fight through with the help of God. Sonja's strong faith not only helped reassure others of her conviction but strengthened the relationship they too have with God.
Sonja grew up in Mertzon, Texas and graduated from Irion County High School where she enjoyed playing basketball, shot put and discuss, Beta Club, and playing the role of the Tortoise in the “Tortoise and the Hare.” Fom there she moved on to attend Angelo State University where she earned a degree in Kinesiology with a Minor in English. She started a teaching career in Grand Falls where she coached and taught English. After 2 years she moved to Ector County teaching junior high where she spent the rest of her 20 year teaching career. She had a love for her sudents that existed until the day she passed. She gave all she had from her heart to her pocketbook helping with emotional struggles, financial hardships and of course a dedication to higher learning. The love she had for her students and the respect they had for her made it a difficult decision to leave teaching behind and start another chapter. She went on to get her Masters at Abilene Christian University in Mediation and Conflict Resolution. With her health giving her physical and emotional struggles, she never really got to put her degree to work. She was wanting to help victims of domestic abuse. She was working on a plan with some of her good friends to get a program together to help this group of people in the local area.
Over the past few years Sonja's relationship with God grew even stronger. She never doubted the path through which she was chosen even though it was difficult for those of us to see her physical struggles. Her determination and faith kept all of the people working with her and her family and friends inspired by her faith. Even when she wasn't feeling her best, she was excited to help her fellow Christians work on projects for members of the community. She had a huge smile and an even bigger heart. She will be missed.
Sonja is survived by her mother Leona Brekke of Mertzon, Texas, her sister Deanna Brekke Stephenson and brother in law Dale Stephenson of Columbus, Ohio, numerous aunts, uncles and cousins from across the country.
She was preceded in death by her father Arliff James Brekke.
Services will be Tuesday, October 3, 2017 at 11:00 am at the First Methodist Church in Mertzon, Texas by one of our biggest blessings, Pastor Bun Jackson. Arrangements are by Shaffer Funeral/Sherwood Way.
We have been so overwhelmed with the kindness and love that the people of Mertzon have shown us throughout this time. They have given of their time, hearts, pocketbooks and prayers. We are truly grateful and proud to be a part of such a wonderful community.
Both West Texas Rehab of San Angelo and The First United Methodist Church of Mertzon have been a true blessing and we would be so honored that if you would like to honor Sonja in such a way, these are two wonderful entities that help so many.

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