Oren (Sonny) Joseph Showman, age 93 entered into eternal rest on May 7, 2026, preceded by his stepdaughter Janice Lesko. He was born August 9, 1932, in Lincoln, Pennsylvania, to Muriel Q. Herbert. Sonny spent most of his life in East Hartford, Connecticut, and later in Jupiter, Florida.

A proud 1951 graduate of East Hartford High School, Sonny honorably served in the United States Army during the Korean War. He was known by friends and family as “one hell of an angler,” with a lifelong passion for fishing. He was also an avid sports enthusiast, especially passionate about football and a loyal fan of the New England Patriots. Sonny enjoyed spending his winters in Puerto Rico, which he made his winter home. While there, he served as captain of a beach volleyball team in San Juan, reflecting his competitive spirit and love of staying active. 

During his military experience, Sonny served as a rifleman and squad leader with the 5th Regimental Combat Team during the Korean War. For his honorable service, he was awarded the Combat Infantryman Badge, Presidential Unit Citation, Korean Service Medal with two Bronze Stars, United Nations Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Good Conduct Medal, and Overseas Service Bar.

Following his military service, Sonny built a career as an entrepreneur and businessman. He owned the Hideaway Café in Hartford, later worked in construction and owned the Add-A-Level Dormer company in East Hartford, and after relocating to Florida, he was a furniture promoter and owned Promotional Sales Consultants based in Jupiter prior to his retirement. 

He is survived by his daughter, April Showman; granddaughter, Whitney Showman; and a loving friend Andrew Marteka (the son he never had). The family extends special thanks to Don LaChance and John Ferrantino for their friendship and for making Sonny feel welcomed at Vets Healing on the Fly, a nonprofit organization dedicated to assisting veterans and active-duty military personnel on their healing journey. 

Sonny will be laid to rest per his wishes at the South Florida National Cemetery in Lake Worth, Florida. In lieu of a service, the family encourages you to honor veterans through acts of remembrance and gratitude. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.  To share memories or send condolences to the family, please visit www.doolittlefuneralservice.com.