Jeffrey Sterling Sonstegard of Longville, Minnesota. Nationally recognized Artist died September 15, 1995, less than five days after he was diagnosed with terminal pancreatic cancer.
At 34 years of age, Jeffrey left a large mark on the people of the North Country.

He touched a thousands of people with his art work, his positive attitude, and his love of life.
An accomplished painter, illustrator, and graphic artist, Jeffrey's art work has been seen and admired by many individuals. He illustrated many different kinds of books, Mark Stensaas - " Canoe Country - Flora",
Jerry Wilber's "With & Wisdom of the Great Outdoors". Laura Erickson's - "For the Birds", this book contains over 300 illustrations that Jeffrey had to finish in less that 6 months. Jeffrey drew the over 300 Illustrations that were used in book "For the Birds" often without ever seeing the birds live.

Laura Erickson brought a recovered Nighthawk for Jeffrey to see in person and release back into the wild
at his house only five days prior to his death.

He was able to capture the birds in very lifelike settings with only pictures for reference.
In 1994 Jeffrey entered Minnesota Migratory Waterfowl Stamp Competition of "Harlequin Ducks" and was a Semifinalist. The same year, with his long time friend "Czes", Jeffrey issued his first Limited Edition Art Print
of Evening Grosbeaks "Gold, Silver & Bronze". Originally created as a found raiser for Minnesota Winter Special Olympic Games. Due to illness Jeffrey, was unable to place in 1995 Minnesota Migratory Waterfowl Stamp Competition of "Ruddy Ducks", although just before his death he was able to sign his entry.

Jeffrey also did extensive graphic design work. He designed art work and logos for businesses such Alakef Coffee, Duncraft Company of New Hampshire's Catalog of bird feeders and bird feeder supplies.
Just before his departure, Jeffrey completed illustrating a 16 page catalog for the Gunflint Lodge on the Gunflint Trail. Jeffrey will be remembered for creating KUMD's logo, T-Shirt designs, and billboards since 1991,
and designing the first and only shirt for the 'This Way Out" program.

Through his Work , Jeffrey could convey emotion. He could capture beauty in things that many of us would not even notice, let alone appreciate. His original paintings of birds and animals have an uncanny ability to capture the graceful magnificence and natural beauty of the ese seemingly beasts.

Jeffrey has been my friend and business partner for over 9 years since I defected from my Native Country
of Poland. Jeffrey had the patience to teach me the English language. He took the time to educate me in the things I needed to know to succeed in this Country.

I will miss you forever.

Your Friend,

Czeslaw

Jeffrey!

Fly! - like the birds you drew so well.
Soar like the Nighthawk dance on the air,
like your art does on the canvas and on the pad.
I know that you have made
a tremendous difference in my life and lives of many.
Most importantly know you will be remembered with my great love and the kind of love you always gave to others.

Your Friend - Czeslaw

Thanks to My Friend Mark from Belgium for Logo's & Graphics. Outstanding Work Mark. Thanks.

Updated Today: Tuesday, November 05, 2002 10:24:12 AM

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