In Loving Memory of Harry Monroe “Sonny” Marshall

November 27, 1934 – October 10, 2026

Harry “Sonny” Marshall, age 91, passed away on October 10, 2026. Born in Barnsdall, Oklahoma, on November 27, 1934, he was the cherished son of the late William Elmo Marshall and Nellie Bell Yates Marshall.

Sonny was preceded in death by his beloved parents, William and Nellie; his loving wife of 70 years, Earlene Joyce Reed Marshall; his cherished daughter, Anna Marie Lopez; and all of his brothers, sisters, and in-laws: Elmo Leon “Bud” Marshall (and wife Blanche), Marsha May Maerz (and husband Norman), Robert Lee Marshall (and wife Nancy), and Brenda Clack (and husband Ray). Being the last surviving member of his generation, Sonny carried the family’s shared heritage and stories with immense love and grace.

In 1954, Sonny relocated to Long Beach, California. Proud to serve his country, he enlisted in the United States Coast Guard on January 31, 1955. Following an injury during his service, he received his discharge in May 1955. Shortly thereafter, on July 29, 1955, Sonny married Earlene, the love of his life. In 1957, Sonny and Earlene moved to Grand Junction, Colorado, where they planted deep roots and lovingly raised their family.

Sonny was a master of his craft in the oil, gas, and water well bit rebuilding industry. A brilliant problem solver in the field, he designed custom hole openers and specialized fishing tools used to recover lost or bound drilling components deep within wellbores—earning him a distinguished reputation across the industry worldwide.

Beyond his technical genius, Sonny was a captivating storyteller who drew people in with his warmth, wit, and wisdom. He lived by his favorite Bible verse, Colossians 4:6, which he frequently quoted: “Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one.” A deeply good and selfless caretaker, he was devoted to protecting, providing for, and cherishing his family and friends.

He was actively involved in his community as a valued member of the Eagles Lodge in Grand Junction, Colorado, Masonic Lodge #55 in Grand Junction, Colorado, and the Church of the Nazarene in Palisade, Colorado.

Sonny’s memory will be forever cherished by his surviving children: Deniese Kohles (and husband Brian), William Earl Marshall (and wife Brenda), Carrie Jo Shepardson (and husband Vern), and Dennis Monroe Marshall; son-in-law John Lopez; along with 14 grandchildren, 29 great-grandchildren (with another great-grandchild eagerly expected soon), and 4 great-great-grandchildren (with another great-great-grandchild also on the way).

Please join us for a loving memorial service of Sonny Marshall held on November 14, 2026, at the Masonic Center in Grand Junction, Colorado, at 2:00 PM. The service will include Masonic rites and military honors provided by the VFW Honor Guard in recognition of his service in the United States Coast Guard. Refreshments will follow after the service.

A memorial marker will be placed for both Sonny and Earlene, in the Western Colorado Veterans Cemetery Memorial Garden. Both will be buried at sea together, by the United States Coast Guard, in the spring of 2027.

The family extends their sincere gratitude and thanks to the Grand Junction VA Hospital, the Community Living Center, and Brown’s Cremation and Funeral Service for their compassionate care and support.

Sonny’s legacy of love, protective care, service, extraordinary craft, and deep commitment to his faith and family will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.