In Memory of Charles "Chuck" Sonksen

Charles “Chuck” Sonksen, age 76, of Ida Grove, Iowa, passed away on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, at the Horn Memorial Hospital of Ida Grove, Iowa.

Per Chuck’s wishes no services will be held.

The Christensen-Van Houten Funeral Home of Ida Grove, Iowa, is in charge of the funeral arrangements. Condolences may be sent online at www.christensenvanhouten.com

Charles Arnold “Chuck” Sonksen, the son of Dethlef A. and Dorothy E. (McNaughton) Sonksen, was born on December 5, 1949, in Carroll, Iowa. He grew up on the family farm near Gray, Iowa and received his education from Manilla High School graduating with the class of 1968.

Following his graduation, Chuck attended college for one year before returning home to help on the family farm. In 1972, he married Kathy Delp, and together they were blessed with two daughters, Andrea and Melanie. The family initially made their home on the farm near Gray. Seeking a new opportunity, Chuck later purchased the Coast-to-Coast Hardware store and relocated the family to Ida Grove, Iowa. In 1999, the family endured the heartbreaking loss of their daughter, Andrea. Chuck and Kathy later went their separate ways. In the early 2000s Chuck sold the hardware and began driving truck for Ruan until his retirement in 2016. 

In 2021 Chuck met his life partner, Hope Kelley. Together they shared a love of travel, swimming, and spending their winters at Paradise Resort in Pharr, Texas, where they enjoyed making memories with Chuck’s sister, Becky, and her husband. In his younger years, Chuck could be found hunting, fishing, and trapping. He also had a knack for finding a good bargain, whether browsing thrift stores, exploring garage sales, or searching online for the next great deal. Above all, Chuck had a great love for his grandchildren. Chuck was a true people person who never met a stranger. He cherished visiting with others and always looked forward to a friendly game of cards. 

Left to cherish his memory include his life partner Hope Kelley of Ida Grove, IA; daughter Melanie (Wesley) Pierce of Danbury, IA; grandchildren Katie Kidney, Aspen Pierce, and Sylven Pierce; sisters Becky (Kevin) Hansen of Harlan, IA and Edie (Denny) Mesenbrink of Edmond, OK; extended family and friends. 

He was preceded in death by his parents Dethlef and Dorothy Sonksen; and daughter Andrea Sonksen.