Thomas "Tom" Edward Sommers

Thomas (Tom) Edward Sommers passed away peacefully on August 14, 2024 in Sacramento, California at the age of 81. He is survived by his beloved wife of 50 years, Jeannine Sommers; his sons, Frank Sommers and John Sommers; and his sister Donna Stewart.

Tom was born on April 14, 1943, in Kouts, Indiana, where he spent his childhood with his parents and siblings. After graduating from high school, he pursued higher education at Purdue University, majoring in Business Agriculture. Following his graduation, Tom proudly served his country as an officer in the U.S. Army, stationed in Kaiserslautern, Germany.

Upon completing his military service, Tom began a distinguished career at IBM in California, where he worked as a Marketing Manager for 30 years. After his time with IBM, he continued his professional journey at Grainger Corporation, where he finished his sales career.

Tom and Jeannine’s love story began in Stockton, California, in 1973, and they were married on August 10, 1974, in Arnold, California. Together, they built a life filled with love, faith, and community service.

A devout Christian, Tom was deeply involved with the Gideons and Men’s Bible Study Fellowship. His faith also led him and Jeannine to serve as short-term missionaries in Poland. Tom maintained a strong connection to his Purdue fraternity, Alpha Gamma Rho, and was instrumental in establishing the Ron Hurt Scholarship in honor of his fraternity brother who lost his life in the Vietnam War.

Tom had a passion for life and adventure. He was an avid skier, hunter, golfer, loyal 49er fan, and Purdue Boilermaker. But more than his accomplishments and hobbies, Tom will be remembered as a true gentleman, a devoted husband, a loving father, and a man of unwavering faith and integrity.

His legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. Tom’s family and friends will forever cherish the memories of a life well-lived and a spirit that touched many.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the following:

Gideons International

or

The Ron Hurt Scholarship Fund of Alpha Gamma Rho Fraternity

1333 NW Vivion Rd, Suite 110

Kansas City, MO 64118.