Obituary

Norman F. Sommers

Norman F. Sommers, 84, of Eau Claire, peacefully went to his home in Glory on Sunday, February 24, 2008, with his wife by his side. Norm was born March 19, 1923, to Tony and Irene Sommers in Marshfield, WI. He graduated from Marshfield Sr. High School in 1941 and worked for Allis-Chalmers, W. Allis, WI.
		He then joined the U.S. NAVY and honorably served through December 1945. He was a WWII veteran and served on submarine USS ICEFISH SS367 as a Radio Technician First Class. While serving his country, he participated in the American Theater and Asiatic Pacific Theater, earning 2 stars. He also earned the Philippine Liberation, the Victory Medal, and a Submarine Combat medal 1 star.

Norm married Joyce Gerl, also of Marshfield, on December 28, 1946. The couple moved to Stevens Point where Norm completed his first year of studies and then to Pullman, WA where he obtained his B.A. degree in Architecture (May 1950). The couple moved back to Marshfield where Norm worked as a draftsman for Ferris Osbourne. They had 2 daughters, Cindy and Linda, and the family moved to Eau Claire in 1951 when Norm secured a position with Emiel Klingler Assoc. architectural firm. Before opening his own architectural business in the early 1970's, Norm worked for Wayne Jensen Construction in Eau Claire.

Norm and Joyce shared 61 years of marriage and a deep faith in the Lord. They survived a devastating flood in Pullman, WA, and a head-on collision in 1955 which nearly took their lives. They walked hand in hand as they journeyed through life together. Norm accepted Christ as his Savior September 30, 1984, and was baptized by immersion June 18, 2006 at Jacob's Well.

Norm is preceded in death by: his parents, Tony and Irene Sommers, and sister Elaine (Reinwand).

He will be deeply missed by his wife, Joyce; his daughters, Cindy Olson (Dan Miller), of Chippewa Falls, and Linda Catlett (Lou) of Nashville; 3 grandchildren: Jocelyn (Michael Myers), Eau Claire, Caleb (Olson), Rice Lake, and Amberly (Craft), Las Vegas; 3 great grandchildren: Lincoln, Lyric and Legend (Myers). He is also survived by his brother, Raymond (Kathy) of Custer, nieces and nephews, his beloved Aunt Florence of Marshfield, and numerous friends.

The family wishes to thank Pastor Deborah and staff at Syverson Lutheran Home who tenderly cared for Norm during his final days. Special thanks to Pastor Paul and Jacob's Well for ongoing prayers and support.

Friends and relatives are encouraged to attend the visitation, Wednesday, February 27, 2008, from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Fuller-Speckien-Hulke Funeral Home, 3209 Rudolph Road, Eau Claire, WI. Funeral services for Norm will be Thursday, February 28, 2008 at 11:00 a.m. at Jacob's Well Church, 3211 N. 50th Avenue, Chippewa Falls, with a visitation from 10:00 a.m. until time of services. Burial will be in the Lakeview Cemetery in Eau Claire immediately following the services. Military honors will be conducted by American Legion Post #53. Pastor Paul Berthiaume will be officiating.
Family and friends may offer condolences online at www.fullerspeckien.com.

Fuller-Speckien-Hulke Funeral Home (715) 832-5002 is assisting the family with arrangements.