Sonn passed on Saturday (15/11) at his home in Cape Town at the age of 86. He was chancellor of the university from 2002 to 2009 and will be remembered for his impact as an educator, South Africa’s first democratic ambassador to the United States, and as a business leader, the UFS said in a tribute.

Pres. Cyril Ramaphosa has also expressed his deep sadness at the passing of Sonn, who contributed significantly to different sectors of society and the economy. He offered his condolences to his wife and children, as well as extended families and associates nationally and internationally.

During his tenure at the UFS, Sonn made significant contributions to the university, strengthening its commitment to transformation, excellence, and service to society.

President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed his deep sadness at the passing of educator, diplomat and business leader, Dr Franklin Sonn.https://t.co/VKHkeBqxk8#GovZAUpdates

— @SAgovnews (@SAgovnews) November 16, 2025

“We are deeply grateful for Dr Sonn’s loyal service to the University of the Free State and for the way in which he contributed to our institution with integrity and vision,” said vice-chancellor and principal Hester Klopper.

“His example remains a lasting inspiration: to engage fearlessly with change and to contribute meaningfully to the advancement of society. We extend our heartfelt condolences to Dr Sonn’s family and all who were touched by his life and work.”

May his memory be a blessing, and may his legacy continue to guide and uplift future generations, she added.

Sonn was born in Vosburg in the Karoo and raised in Queenstown in the Eastern Cape. He graduated from the University of the Western Cape and began his career as an educator. In 1977, he became rector of the Peninsula Technikon, now part of the Cape Peninsula University of Technology.

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— UFS (@UFSweb) November 16, 2025

Throughout his career, he served on the boards of major companies, including Absa, the Airports Company South Africa (ACSA), and Pioneer Foods. He was also a member of the National Order of the Baobab and a recipient of numerous international honours.

“Franklin Sonn played a great part in our history that lives on in our present,” said Ramaphosa. “And we owe him our commitment to keep building the society he envisioned.

“We remember him as an advocate and activist for the accelerated transformation of our country after the end of apartheid and the upliftment of historically marginalised communities.”

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