Obituary of Duane Russell Sontag

Duane R. Sontag, of East Masonville Pond, Sidney Center, died unexpectedly on Thursday, January 18, 2024. He was 73. Duane served our country in the Army during the VietNam Conflict. He was a helicopter mechanic and helped many of his brothers during that time. With his "Boots on the Ground," he was a brave soldier and a friend to all. Having served his country, he served his community as a New York State Corrections Officer. Duane was proud to be an officer, retiring after working for the Corrections System for 31 years. Duane was a self-taught artist, building and painting with countless different mediums. His artwork was extraordinary, regardless of the medium he used. He was an accomplished craftsman and created so many incredible works of art. Duane is survived by his soulmate, lifemate, and forever love, Kathy Lewis Sontag. They were married August 5, 1972 and were inseparable throughout their 51-year marriage. Duane and Kathy have two daughters, Tina Marie Mabee Catletti (Larry) and Chiante Marie Sontag Huffman (Steve Munro), who adored their father and turned to him for help, advice, or just a cup of coffee. Duane's grandchildren, Shaunisty, Sierra, Gianna, Kash, and Kiersten, and great-grandchildren, Austin, Aydan, Aleena, Achilles, and Callen, will forever remember their Poppop. Duane leaves behind a sister, Darlene Sontag Napolitano, and a brother, Ron (Deb) Sontag. Duane was greatly loved by all his nieces and nephews. Duane was predeceased by his parents, Ruth and Russell, and his brother Gary. Duane was an avid coin collector, and loved to fish with his grandchildren and nephews. His home was East Masonville Pond, and he loved to be in and around the water. His "Lake Life" appreciation showed in all he did and he relished in the quiet and solitude of the lake. A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, February 25, 2024, beginning at 2 pm at the Sidney Center Firehall. All who knew Duane are welcome to come celebrate the beautiful life he lived and remember the wonderful person he was. In lieu of flowers, the family humbly requests that you join all who loved him at his Celebration of Life with a dish to pass. If friends would like to make a donation, please do so in Duane's memory to the Sidney Veterans Administration or The Tunnel to Towers Foundation