Passed away on August 29, 2022, at the age of 92. Predeceased by her husband, Raymond Pickens on
November 24, 2004. Survived by her children; Roy Pickens, John (Jeanne) Pickens and Renee Botsford.
Grandchildren; Crystal Botsford, Josh Pickens, Kaili Botsford, Rachael Botsford and her great
granddaughter Elaina (Ellie) Schmidt. Also survived by her beautiful nieces; Lorraine, Darlene and
Michelle Hüettisch.

Sonja always hoped she would live to see her first grandchild as an adult (Crystal) and she was blessed to
meet and love her first great grandchild (Ellie), daughter of Crystal and Alex. Affectionately referred to
as Oma by her grandchildren, some of Sonja’s greatest joy was seen when not only her grandchildren
entered her room but when sweet little Ellie came in to ‘make Oma feel better’.

Sonja lived a long life and didn’t want everyone to be sad when she passed but instead wanted those
that knew and loved her to rejoice in the life she lived with love and humor.

Sonja’s wishes were to be cremated and then “I don’t care what you do with me, as I’ll be gone”. Those
that knew her will appreciate that this was her humor and realistic approach to life and death. Sonja’s
ashes will be buried on top of her late husband Raymond Pickens grave at Riverside Cemetery,
September 6, 2022 at 1 PM. Her family didn’t get their father’s approval for this, so we apologize in
advance if you hear reignited bickering from the afterlife.