Sonny Waitz

History

In his early years, Sumner “Sonny” Waitz earned a Bachelor of Science in Microbiology from the University of Massachusetts, and a master’s degree in Sanitary Science from Columbia University.

Mr. Waitz moved from his hometown of Malden, Massachusetts to Florida in 1957 to pursue a degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Florida. After graduating, he secured a job with the Florida State Board of Health and relocated to Jacksonville in early 1959.

Qualifications

During his career, Mr. Waitz designed sewer and water treatment plants throughout Northeast Florida and for numerous utility companies and commercial developments. Over the years, Mr. Waitz witnessed Jacksonville make great strides in the cleanup of the St. Johns River. Due to the improved treatment plants, the treatment of pollutants in the water went from only 30% in the 1960’s to 90% by 1989 and 99% today.

Sonny Waitz passed away in 2020. He was an outstanding engineer; his strong background in microbiology and civil engineering made him unique. Many of his projects can still be found in the Jacksonville area today. He was always a friend, and the finest professional.