Sonny Wyse of Lyons is the senior featured in our Spotlight this month. “My interest in music started at Evergreen High School. As a teenager, I sang in the school choir and learned to play the guitar. I also play harmonica, mandolin, and bass.”
“A few years ago, my friend, Lester Hines, got me started going to nursing homes to sing and play. I also play and sing at senior centers, churches, the fair and Harrison Lake Gospel Drive-in.”
“My youngest son often joins me, along with several friends. It’s not always the same group. I play because I feel the Lord is calling me to play music and share the Gospel,” he explained. Sonny said music can improve difficult days.
“Music can be uplifting and help you feel better. I was diagnosed with Muscular Dystrophy in my early twenties, and I worked as a plumber, then spent a lot of years as a mechanic with S & S Small Engines, but eventually had to give that up.”
“I know what it’s like to not be able to do the things I used to do, so I’m glad to do what I can,” Sonny said. Sonny first came to the Senior Center in Wauseon to play a music program with Peter Villalovos.
After that, he started attending regularly. “I enjoy eating lunch at the Senior Center and like to play Hand & Foot. I enjoy the company of the seniors and staff and have learned new things at the programs,” he said.
A few times a week, you can find Sonny at a local fitness center and in the pool to maintain his strength and flexibility. Sonny is married to Sue. They have three sons, two granddaughters and a grandson.