Sonny Whang Purdy

Purdy, Sonny Whang age 60 of Mahtomedi, passed away surrounded by family and friends on July 5, 2023. Preceded in death by parents, Robert and Jean; sister, Linda; and son, Dylan. Sonny was born in Seoul, South Korea on August 30, 1962. Her forever family eagerly picked her up at the airport to welcome her home to Crooked Lake, Minnesota in September of 1969. Amazingly, she learned to speak fluent English within a month, found a lifelong best friend in her sister Kathy, and charmed her way into every heart in town. She bonded with her Parents over their love of nature, food, and dogs, while her many siblings admired her fearless determination as they watched her come into her own. Everyone could see that she was destined to achieve anything she set her mind to. While in High School, Sonny leaned into her passion for hair as she took on the additional challenge of enrolling in Robinson's Beauty School to jump start her career. Her first job was with Lamaur Laboratories before continuing on to John Doll Studios. Along the way she took a chance with her future business partners embarking on their Salon Cheveux journey. Fueled by creativity and innovation, the salon flourished and evolved over the years. She shined bright as an industry leader and trendsetter, being an onstage artist at Aveda Congress, her many invitations to New York Fashion Week, and her fulfilling time as a Master Purefessional Trainer for over a decade. Sonny believed that learning never ends. She could teach anyone and anyone could be her teacher. She was more than a mentor and collaborator; she was a friend and confidant. This carried into her family life too. As a Mom, she not only wanted the best for you, she wanted you to be your best self. She wasn't your typical mom. She was blunt and honest, yet genuine and kind. She taught you to be resourceful and strong, yet thoughtful and silly. She was innately selfless and would sacrifice anything to help you achieve your goals. Mya and Myka were the center of her world and her greatest accomplishment. Even though her heart was already full, she welcomed Brian and his children with open arms. She thought of Dylan and Morgan as her own. Brian renewed her zest for life and their partnership was full of love and respect. Sonny always said that he came at the right time and that he helped ground her. She adored him and felt like she had finally found her missing piece. They were always looking for their next adventure. They were spontaneous and fun. They were dreamers. Survived by husband, Brian; daughters, Mya (Brandon) Ehlenz, Myka Betts, Morgan Purdy, and Pepper; grand-dogs, Hermosita, Dolores, and Oscar; siblings, Dan (Ann) Mansk, Dave (Julie) Mansk, Mark (Jeanne) Mansk, Kathy (Scott) Mansk-Billehus; and many nieces and nephews. Funeral service will be held at 11AM CST on Friday, July 14th with visitation beginning at 9:30AM CST in the Sanctuary at Saint Andrew's Lutheran Church, 900 Stillwater Road, Mahtomedi, 55115. For those unable to attend, a live stream of the memorial service will be available at the following link: https://control.resi.io/webplayer/video.html?id=ea98a04e-f2ba-46f5-a03c-8fa1b2c7e003

Tributes

Sonny Whang Purdy

August 30, 1962 - July 5, 2023

Tributes

Sonny Whang Purdy

August 30, 1962 - July 5, 2023

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