Norman “Sonny” Past, 83, passed away peacefully on Thursday, June 25, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.
Born on July 2, 1942, in Granite City, Illinois, Sonny was the son of the late Norman Past and Beulah (Schneider) Past. He proudly served his country in the United States Army before beginning an apprenticeship as a plumber. It wasn’t long before he discovered the career that would define his life’s passion. For more than 40 years, Sonny owned and operated Sonny Past Auto Productions in Granite City, where his craftsmanship, creativity, and reputation for excellence made him a respected name throughout the automotive community.
On June 18, 1994, Sonny married the love of his life, Judy Rollins, in Edwardsville, Illinois. Together they shared a wonderful marriage built on love, laughter, and countless memories.
To know Sonny was to know his lifelong love affair with automobiles. More than a hobby, classic cars were his life’s work and greatest passion. For over 70 years, he dedicated himself to building, restoring, customizing, buying, selling, and trading automobiles. His remarkable creations earned admiration from enthusiasts across the country. His legendary “JAWS Cycle,” a one-of-a-kind custom creation, continues to tour the globe today, a lasting testament to his imagination and craftsmanship.
Sonny was a familiar face at car shows throughout the region, proudly displaying his award-winning vehicles and collecting countless trophies over the years. Among his most treasured automobiles was his beloved 1934 Ford “Fine Wine,” a vehicle that reflected both his meticulous attention to detail and his artistic vision. His love for speed also led him to the drag strip, where he raced the unforgettable “Blood, Sweat and Tears.” In his later years, he continued racing behind the wheel of his cherished Nomad, proving that his enthusiasm for automobiles never diminished.
While cars were his passion, the people he loved were his greatest blessing. Sonny cherished time spent with family and friends, and he was always willing to lend a helping hand, share his knowledge, or spend hours talking cars with anyone who shared his enthusiasm.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Judy Past; his stepchildren, Wade Ashley and Stephanie (Vic) Failoni; his grandson, Victor Failoni; his sisters, Sandy Cuvar and Judy (Jake Jr.) Hinterser; his brother-in-law, James (Babette) Rollins; his nieces and nephews, Cheryl (Farrell) Whitaker, Nancy (George Jr.) Diak, Dana Hinterser, Christopher (Robin) Hinterser, and Todd (Erica) Hinterser; along with his beloved dogs; Molly & Oscar, many other extended family members, dear friends, and countless other car enthusiasts whose lives he touched.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Norman and Beulah Past; his parents-in-law, Wade and Hazel Rollins; his brother-in-law, Gale Cuvar; and his beloved Godson and Nephew, Jacob Andrew Hinterser III.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate caregivers of HSHS Hospice of Southern Illinois for the exceptional care, comfort, and kindness they provided to Sonny and his family during his final days.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Partners for Pets Humane Society, 9136 Lower Marine Rd., St. Jacob, IL 62281 or HSHS Hospice of Southern Illinois, 503N Maple, Effingham, IL 62401 Attn. Hospice, in Sonny’s memory.
A Celebration of Life honoring Sonny’s remarkable life will be held at the Amvets Post 204 at 1711 Kennedy Dr. in Madison, IL 62060 on Sunday, July 19th from 1 – 4pm.
Though his hands have been stilled, the masterpieces he built, the memories he created, and the friendships he forged will continue to live on. Sonny’s legacy will forever be found in the rumble of a classic engine, the shine of polished chrome, and the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him.
