David M. Sonka

Corporal David M. Sonka 23, from Parker, Colorado was killed in action on May 4, 2013, while conducting combat operations in Farah Province, Afghanistan. David, a multi purpose K9 handler, stationed out of Camp Lejeune, North Carolina was killed in action alongside his Multi Purpose Canine, Flex. David was born November 28, 1989 in Aurora, Colorado. David is the son of Donna Francis and Glenn Beine and Kevin and Kim Sonka. David's siblings are Matt Sonka, Ashley Yerina, Devynn Yerina, and Torrey Sonka. David is the son-in-law of John and Lianne Nicol, Brother-in-law of Josh Nicol, Grandson of Nancy Francis, Elaine Sonka, Joan Beine, Phyllis Herd, grandson-in-Law of John and Barbara Nicol, Jim and Peg Wright. David graduated from Chaparral High School, in the class of 2008. After graduating from high school, David fulfilled his lifelong dream by enlisting with the United States Marine Corps. David attended boot camp at the Marine Corps Recruit Depot- San Diego, graduating November 2008. David wed his high school sweetheart Torey Nicol in 2009. David served two combat tours, in support of operation Enduring Freedom. David's decorations include a Purple Heart, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, Navy Unit Commendation, Navy Meritorious Unit Commendation, Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, NATO- ISAF Medal. David was well known for his dedicated work ethic and humility, both in the K9 community and all aspects of his life. When off duty, David enjoyed spending time BBQing with family and friends, time with his dogs, running, camping, fishing, and hunting, all alongside with his wife Torey. David was a kind and loving son and grandson who showed his love in every way. This world is a much sadder place without him. His family and friends are devastated by the loss of this wonderful young man. A Visitation will be held on Wednesday, May 15, 2013 from 3:00pm until 7:00pm at Horan & McConaty Family Chapel, 5303 East County Line Road (one block west of South Holly Street) in Centennial. Funeral Service will be held on Thursday, May 16, 2013 at 10:00am at Mission Hills Church, 620 SouthPark Drive, Littleton. Interment will follow at Ft. Logan National Cemetery, Pavilion 'A' 3698 South Sheridan Boulevard, Denver 80235. Memorials may be made in David's name to the Wounded Warrior Project at www.woundedwarriorproject.org or to Feed the Dawgs Project at P.O. Box 533, Mentone, California 92359-0533. Please share your memories of David and condolences with his family by signing the guestbook below.