Sonny Scalese

Harold Thomas (Sonny) Scalese, born July 5, 1943, in Chester, Montana, to Hales and Amby Scalese, passed away peacefully in his home on Saturday February 1st 2025. After 12 months and 19 days apart, he decided it was long enough to be without his beloved Karen.

 Sonny grew up on the family farm north of Galata alongside his parents, older sister Karen, and younger brother Steve. He graduated from Oilmont High School in 1962. It was through his sister Karen that he met the love of his life, Karen Foster. Their first date at a dance in Joplin marked the beginning of a lifelong journey together. Over the course of 60 wonderful years, they built a life full of love, laughter, and adventure, raising their “favorite” son Larry, and “favorite” daughter, Linda 

Sonny worked in various professions before beginning his long career in the oil industry. In the spring of 1966, he went to work for Renny Turner before joining Cardinal in the fall. By 1969, he was working for Texaco in the South Field of Cut Bank. Over the years, the family moved from Cut Bank to Sunburst in 1972, where Sonny and Karen made their home and life together until eventually moving to the family farm north of Shelby in 2012. After retiring from Texaco in 1992, Sonny worked for Basin before finally deciding in 1997 to go into business for himself, founding Sonkar Inc., where he and Karen worked side by side.

Beyond his work, Sonny was a dedicated community servant. He proudly served as a volunteer firefighter for North Toole County for over 30 years, including time as fire chief. He also served as Mayor of Sunburst—though his public service ended with a memorable resignation in the newspaper, stating, I am resigning due to health reasons, “I am sick and tired of the B.S.”

In his free time, Sonny loved nothing more than spending time with his family. He enjoyed camping, hunting at Meissner’s, snowmobiling, and making countless memories at the family cabin—one of his favorite places. This past summer was especially cherished as Sonny spent every moment he could there with his children and grandchildren. He was particularly excited about the new fire pit, where he could sit, watch the flames, and blast his favorite old-time country music.

Sonny’s legacy is one of love, laughter, and unwavering devotion to family and friends. His sense of humor, strong work ethic, and generous heart will forever be remembered by those who had the privilege of knowing him.

And in the words of Sonny Scalese himself:

“All around a pig’s ass is pork.”

Sonny is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Karen, and his parents, Hales and Amby Scalese, His Sister Karen and Brother in Law Duaine Sloan. He is survived by his children, Larry (Beth) and Linda (Rod). his grandchildren and Great Grandchildren; his brother Steve (Diane); and countless family members and friends who will miss him dearly.

A celebration of Sonny’s life will be held Saturday February 8th at 2:pm at the Sunburst Luthern church. In honor of Sonny, the family invites you to share a story, raise a glass, and listen to some classic country music in his memory.