Adelbert J. “Sonny” Ambuehl Jr., 86, of Granite City, IL, passed away peacefully on Sunday, December 7, 2025, at Christian Hospital in St. Louis, MO. Born on September 22, 1939, in Edwardsville, IL, Sonny was the beloved son of the late Adelbert J. Ambuehl Sr. and Doris Mae (Schmidt) Ambuehl.
A proud United States Army veteran, Sonny served his country with honor and carried that same dedication into every chapter of his life. On April 14, 1962, he married the love of his life, Karan Thetford, at the Methodist Church in East St. Louis, IL. Their marriage of sixty-three years was a true partnership—full of devotion, laughter, and unwavering commitment.
Sonny lived a life rich with purpose and passion. As the longtime owner and operator of Dewitt Paint Company in Granite City, he built lasting relationships with customers and friends throughout the community. He was a faithful member of Nameoki United Methodist Church and a proud, active member of Granite City Elks Lodge #1063, where he poured his heart into functions and the “Friday Fish” dinner.
Known for his warm smile and easy conversation, Sonny never met a stranger. He was an exceptional cook, a skilled marksman who enjoyed target shooting, and a man who found joy in travel, tending his garden, and taking long drives simply to see where the road would lead. He loved old western and war movies, but nothing compared to the time he spent with his family. His grandchildren were the light of his life, and he cherished every moment spent spoiling them.
Preceding him in death are his parents; his brother, Richard Ambuehl; and his precious granddaughter, Ghia Richardson.
Sonny leaves behind his devoted wife, Karan Ambuehl of Granite City, IL; his loving sons, Blake (Luz) Ambuehl of Granite City, IL, and Gregory (Imelda) Ambuehl of Las Vegas, NV; and his adored grandchildren, Donna (Chance) Westover of Canyon Lake, TX, Kara (Zach) Pangelinan of Granite City, IL, and Deanna (Barry) McBain of Fords, NJ. He is also survived by his treasured great-grandchildren—Holly, Alec, Ghia Page, Kymani, Zephyr, and Myles—and his cherished great-great-grandchildren, Ghia Grace, Hero, Everly, and Avery. Sonny’s life was further enriched by extended family and countless dear friends who will forever carry his memory in their hearts.
A visitation celebrating Sonny’s life will be held from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, at Irwin Chapel in Granite City, IL. The Elks Memorial Ritual and funeral service will follow at 4:00 p.m.
Memorial donations in Sonny’s honor may be made to the Elks National Foundation and will be accepted at the funeral chapel.
Expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family at www.irwinchapel.com.
