John H. Sommerer

A lifelong Pennsylvania resident, Johnny was born in Philadelphia and had lived in Bucks County for over 45 years.

Johnny was a roofer by trade and had his own roofing company for many years. He also worked at Schmidt’s Brewery in Philadelphia.

Johnny was truly one of a kind. He was kind and generous to family and strangers alike. You couldn’t show up at his house without leaving with a treasure he had picked out just for you at a yard sale. He had a soft spot for animals, loving all the many pets in his life. From Rusty to Rocky and Chilly, to his grandpets, Danny Boy, Stella, Zoey, Tina and his closest companion in the last 9 months, Murphy, (who he referred to as his “best friend” )he loved them all. Every night when he would say his prayers, he would list all his family members and all the past and present family pets. It took him a long time, but he never wanted to leave anyone out. He loved the beach and looked forward to the annual family trip to the Outer Banks (31 years and running) and even though the drive was hard on him these last few years, he always persevered and went because the most important thing was for us to be together.

Johnny’s utmost source of pride was his family. He was a loving husband to Catherine, “Sissy” his wife of 56 years, until her passing in 2014. Johnny missed Sissy every day and our greatest comfort is that they will be together again.

He was the devoted father of Katie Sommerer (Mary Jo), Lisa Nastasiak (Steven), Shelly Sommerer (Stephen), Tricia Sommerer (Denis) Heather Sommerer (Nick) and the late Mary. Johnny and Sissy created a family together that is a testament to their love. They were blessed with all daughters, and no one could tell him any different. Often, when people would hear he had that many daughters and no sons, they would offer their apologies and say, “Oh you poor man!” Johnny wouldn’t hear of it, he would tell them how lucky he was to have all his girls. He was the ultimate Girl Dad before it was a thing. Instilling in his daughters the belief that they could do anything.

Johnny also loved his grandchildren, Jillian, Gabrielle, Delaney, Dominic, and Louis. Beaming with pride he would never hesitate to brag about them and let people know of their latest accomplishments, no matter how small.

He was one of 12 children and is survived by his siblings, George, Rose, Carol, Bruce, and Donna. Johnny was also very close to his Sister-in-law, Sue. He will be missed by numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

Services will be held at a later date due to Covid. If anyone would like to honor Johnny, please consider performing a random act of kindness or a donation in his memory to the animal charity of your choice.