Gary Leonard Sommerfeld

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Gary Leonard Sommerfeld, 84, of Tyrone, GA on November 21, 2023 after a long battle with Alzheimer’s. He was born in Worland, Wyoming, on November 3, 1939 to the late Emma and Herbert Sommerfeld.

Gary was raised and grew up in Washougal, Washington, with his late sister, Diane Vickers.

After graduating Washougal High School, he went into the Air Force National Guard and served his country for 27 years as an aircraft mechanic. He graduated from Northrup Institute of Technology where he received his A&P license. Gary had an extremely successful career in the airline industry. Using this knowledge and passion for the aviation field, he worked for Western Air Lines and then Delta Airlines for a total of 42 years. Later in his career, he was a Maintenance Inspector Supervisor for Delta.

Gary loved to camp, hunt, fish, and travel. He loved relaxing walking along the river with a fishing pole in hand with his friends, and enjoyed many vacations and cruises, especially Europe.

Gary had a passion for watching his grandchildren succeed and was always there to cheer them on. He enjoyed seeing all of the sporting events and flying to California to see his grandson every month. All that had the pleasure of knowing him, both professionally and personally, will miss him. His wondrous laughter and happy personality will always be remembered.

Gary is preceded in death by his parents; his sister; and a son, Alan Sommerfeld, who passed away in 1999.

Gary is survived by his loving wife of 61 years, Dorothy Sommerfeld; daughter, Barbara Sommerfeld; grandson, Alex Sommerfeld Lethcoe; granddaughter, Allison Sommerfeld.

In honor of Gary’s final wishes, a private ceremony will be held in Westlake Village, California, at a future date.

In lieu of flowers, Gary’s wish was to honor our veterans with a donation to your favorite Veteran’s program.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.carmichaelhemperleypeachtree.com for the Sommerfeld family.