Joseph Leon Sommers

Taken away from us too soon and unexpectedly. Age 57 of Spring Lake Park passed peacefully May 31, 2009. Survived by his devoted and loving wife, Sandra; his dog, Tuco; sons, Michael and Bill; father, Stanley; siblings, Fern (Tom) Edgett, Roger (Pat) Sommers, Sandra (Ed) De La Forest and Debra (Kevin) Flanagan. Preceded in death by mother, Gladys. Talented railroad electrician for 32 years and devoted employee of BNSF. Joe enjoyed using his skills and knowledge while trouble-shooting train engines. He loved a challenge. Joe thrived while helping others learn. He welcomed the partnership of mentoring and supported many apprenticeships over his years of service to the industry. All who know Joe understand and recognize his passion for baseball. He was a Minnesota Twins season ticket holder for many years. He knew the game thoroughly and talked often about playing it as a child while growing up in St. Paul. As Joe approached retirement age, he created an inspiring legacy of MN Twins sports memorabilia. Each and every item has a story attached to it with memories to share and embrace. Once retired, Joe enjoyed vacations to Florida in March to watch the MN Twins spring training. Joe knew almost every mile of bicycle trails in the State of MN. It was not uncommon to see him out biking around the neighborhood with Tuco nestled into his pooch pouch, enjoying our warm and sunny days and evenings. Joe was diagnosed with cancer on April 13th, 2009. His last few days were spent at Abbott Northwestern Hospital in Minneapolis with Tuco and Sandra at his side. Joe appreciated the talented, compassionate and caring nurses of Station 30. They helped him through the end of his life journey and onto the next journey. Nurses and caregivers from Station 31 were ever present with their smiles, hugs and words of support. Doctors Alan Divine, Elliot Francke, Sara Langer and PJ Flynn were supportive, helpful and experts in their field of practice. Thanks to each of you in such a difficult time. Everyone helped to make something so terrible into something bearable. There is no way to thank you for all that you have done for Joe and Sandra during this painful time. In the end, Joe didn't want us to mourn or cry for him. He wanted us to remember him and love him for who he was, leaving behind fond, loving and fun memories. Our Joe will be gone from sight but will always remain in our hearts. We will see him again some day. Memorial service 2PM Saturday, June 20 at HOLCOMB-HENRY-BOOM, 515 Hwy 96 at Mackubin, Shoreview (651-482-7606).

Tributes

Joseph Leon Sommers

September 20, 1951 - May 31, 2009

Tributes

Joseph Leon Sommers

September 20, 1951 - May 31, 2009

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