Kathleen Nora Sommer

Kathleen Nora Sommer, 75, of Scottsdale, Arizona passed away July 15, 2023 after a long battle with Alzheimer’s. Kathleen was born on August 17, 1947 in Elkhorn, Wisconsin to Joseph and Anthea (Stearns) Welch.

Kathleen is survived by her loving husband of 54 years William A. Sommer; her four daughters Christine Bailey (Chris Bailey, Sommer and Grant), Jacalyn Sommer (Scott Kelley), Sarah Sommer (Steve Villabona, Liv and Henry) and Becca Sommer.

Kathleen was predeceased by her parents Joe and Anthea, sister and brother, Beth Read and Bill Welch. She is survived by her loving sisters Mary Jo Welch, Pat Freeland, Kim Welch and Julie Van Keuren.

Kathleen is a graduate of Elkhorn High School, Class of 1965, Madison Business College with an Associate Degree, Class of 1966 and Stout State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration, Class of 1970.

Kathleen married her lifelong friend and college sweetheart William Sommer on June 6, 1969 at St John Episcopal Church in Elkhorn WI.

Kathleen spent her early years after graduation and marriage volunteering with Mercy Hospital Axillary, Junior Women’s Club and Trinity Episcopal Church. The family moved to Scottsdale and Kathleen embarked on a career at America West Airlines as a Customer Service Representative. After she retired her customer service wings Kathleen moved towards her passion of woodworking and started Pigeon Hole Creations with her good friend Martha Garry. Kathleen contributed as the business and accounting manager for Sommer Dental Care throughout the years. She also dedicated countless hours volunteering with AZ Desert Gems Synchronized Swimming team.

Kathleen’s years at America West allowed her to pursue one of her true passions of traveling. She enjoyed the spur of the moment travel plans to visit family, friends and go exploring. She was also happiest doing arts and crafts projects, sewing, and spending time in her workshop, especially woodworking and making Adirondack furniture.

Kathleen was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend. Her vibrant smile that lit up a room will be missed by all who loved and adored her.

Visitation will be Friday, August 4, 2023 from 5:00pm to 8:00pm at Phoenix Memorial Park & Mortuary, 200 W. Beardsley Rd., Phoenix, AZ 85027. The Funeral Service will be held Saturday, August 5, 2023 at 10:00am, also at Phoenix Memorial Park and Mortuary.

The family wishes memorial contributions be made to Alzheimer’s Association in Kathleen’s name. https://act.alz.org

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