Marla Jean (Connell) Wright Sonnenfelt, 86, of North Platte passed away Aug. 25, 2026 at Linden Court.

She was born November 29, 1939 at St. Mary’s Hospital in North Platte, NE to R. Bernard and Cleo (Franken) Connell.

Marla attended a one room school house through 8th grade and graduated from McPherson County High School with the class of 1957. She worked on the family ranch and part time for various offices at McPherson County Courthouse after graduation. She married J. Gaylord Wright on June 12, 1966 and they ranched in the Tryon area until 1972 when Gaylord took employment in Mullen. Marla worked at Duttons Grocery Store for several years. After Gaylord retired from Mullen Coop, they got a highway mail contract and carried rural mail for seven years. Gaylord passed away July 5, 2006. Marla married Bill Sonnenfelt on February 14, 2008.

Marla was a 50-year member of American Legion Auxiliary Unit 189.

Marla was preceded in death by husband, Gaylord Wright; parents, Bernard and Cleo Connell; brothers, Roger and Hartward Connell.

Survivors include husband, Bill Sonnenfelt; five step children; ten step grandchildren; godson, Ryan Stoddard; sisters-in-law, Wanda Connell and Shirley Wickham. Numerous nieces, nephews, family members and friends.

Graveside services were held Monday, Aug. 31 at Fort McPherson National Cemetery with Pastor Les Parmenter officiating. Adams & Swanson Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

© 2026 The North Platte Bulletin. All rights reserved!