Sonia Helena Kragh passed away peacefully on August 10, 2026, at the age of 82 in her daughter’s home in Syracuse, NY.
Born on January 23, 1944, to Czechoslovak diplomat Dr. Antonin and Sonia Obrdlik. She spent her early years in Czechoslovakia before her family relocated to New York in 1947 for her father’s role at the United Nations.
Sonia grew up in Rye, New York, graduating high school with honors in 1961. She spent many cherished summers at her family’s farm in Buell’s Gore, Vermont.
Married her high school sweetheart, Peter Kragh, in 1961. Together they had twin daughters, Sonia Yvonne and Evalyn.
Earned her degree in high school education from Fairleigh Dickinson University (1978) while raising her children, later earning a master’s degree in Spanish literature from the University of Kentucky. She taught English, and Spanish in McCreary County, KY and at Lafayette High School in Lexington, KY, directing foreign exchange programs and leading student trips to Spain.
Spent over 40 years in Kentucky, where she volunteered for the Lexington Humane Society, served as an interpreter for the 2010 World Equestrian Games, enjoyed playing golf, cheered for UK Wildcats basketball, and enjoyed traveling, including winters in Costa Rica.
Surviving Family: Peter Kragh (married 65 years). Daughters Sonia (Sri) and Evalyn (Lynn), Sisters Danila and Helen (Hal). Five grandchildren (Hannah, Mary, Peter, Sonia Shalini, and Lexie), two great-granddaughters (Gabriella Sonia and Grace), as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.
