Published in Reno Gazette-Journal on Jan.1,2010

On December 20, 2009 northern Nevada lost a champion of philanthropy, a pioneer in business, a devoted father and dear friend to countless many when Paul Sonner passed away.
Paul was born in New York City but ultimately found his way to Reno in 1986. His love of sports served as the foundation for a sports bar concept that in 1994 became Bully's Sports Bar & Grill.
As Bully's grew, so did Paul's commitment to the community. As a result, area high schools received support, local youth and adult sport organizations gained funding and countless charities received annual donations. The University of Nevada Athletics Department found a loyal friend in Paul and over the years, thousands of under-privileged families were able to enjoy Thanksgiving dinner for free at Bully's. Where there was a need, Paul always tried to help.
But while running his business and supporting our community were his passions, nothing meant more to him than his daughter Jordan. Paul made sure that he coached every single local and traveling basketball team that she ever played on and he was also the biggest supporter of her pursuit as an MMA fighter. Paul also set aside time every year for the two of them to vacation in Maui, a trip that he started looking forward to the minute the previous one had ended. His daughter was his pride and joy and ultimately, his best friend. There has never been a more passionate, loving and devoted father.
One thing that stayed constant throughout the years was Paul himself. He was always a regular guy who never let business success change who he was - A point that was not subtly made when he graciously accepted the 2009 "Large Business Entrepreneur of the Year" award by the Reno Gazette-Journal and Nevada's Center for Entrepreneurship and Technology in a Hawaiian T-shirt.
Whether by a caring hand or simply a good cheeseburger, it's safe to say that we've all been touched by Paul Sonner in one way or another. He was a philanthropist, a true friend, a supporter of athletics and above all, a loving father. He will be greatly missed.
Paul is survived by his daughter Jordan Sonner, mother Renee Sonner, father Stanley Sonner, sister Michele Felice Sonner and nephew Lance Henri Topper. A memorial service will be held January 16, 2010 at 10 a.m. at the Virginia Street Gym.