Leo "Sonny" Gussler Jr

Leo "Sonny" Gussler Jr., 83, of Roseville, passed away unexpectedly on January 17, 2024, at his residence. Born on August 30, 1940, in Franklin County, Sonny was a man of great skill and even greater heart. He was known for his warm smile, his love of adventure and his knack for building and fixing just about anything. He is survived by his loving family, including his daughter, Betsy (David) Williamson, his sons, Matt (Kris) Gussler, and Luke (Angie) Gussler, grandchildren, Brandon, Tanner, Nate, Jake, Carson, Peyton, Parker, Preston, and Piper. Also mourning his loss are his brother, Johnny Gussler, and his sisters, Debbie Papageorge, and Sandy Downey, as well as his faithful furry companion, Sarge, whom he loved very much. Sonny's professional life was as robust and varied as his interests. He spent many years as a heavy equipment operator with Shelly & Company before taking the leap into self-employment. His dedication to his craft was paralleled by his involvement with the United Mine Workers of America (UMWA) and his retirement from the International Union of Operating Engineers. Outside of work, Sonny was a tinkerer at heart, always found with tools in hand, building things that would last. His passion for working on cars and dune buggies was well-known among friends and family, and his expertise was often sought after. Sonny's adventurous spirit soared beyond the ground; he loved to fly. Earning his pilot's license was one of his proudest achievements, and he went on to build his own airplane, a testament to his determination and ingenuity. Sonny was preceded in death by his parents, Leo and Adella (Baker) Gussler, Sr., and his siblings Jessie, Steve and David Gussler, Alma Rider, Diane Morris, Juanita Thomas, Jacqueline Wickham, and Nora Lee Wickham. A dignified cremation will take place under the direction of Ross-Frash Funeral Home, 207 Burley Street, Crooksville, honoring Sonny’s final wishes. You may sign the online register book at www.ross-frahfuneralhomes.com

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