David A. Sommer
David A. Sommer, 85, of Ashtabula, passed away peacefully on April 28, 2025, with his loving wife by his side.
Dave was born in Old Brooklyn in Cleveland, the son of Leonard and LaVerne (nee Decker) Sommer. He graduated from James Ford Rhodes High School in Cleveland and then headed to Chicago’s George Williams College, where he earned a degree that prepared him for his long career working for the YMCA.
Beginning as the Youth Director at the Geauga Y, running Trail Blazer after-school programs and leading camping, biking, and canoeing trips, he later became the Executive Director of the branch. The Chardon Rotary honored him with the title of Mr. Geauga Y.
Dave later became the Executive Director of the Cleveland YMCA Camps Division and was the onsite director of Centerville Mills Camp. Later, he directed the Ashtabula County YMCA.
He became a minister of the United Church of Christ and served as an interim minister and filled pulpits around the county.
David and his wife, Linda Sue (nee Macek) Sommer, were married in the chapel at Centerville Mills Camp in 1980.
David is survived by his wife, Linda; daughter, Kristin Sommer (Ted); son, Lynn Sommer; grandchildren, Justine and Harrison; great-granddaughter, Hadley; and sisters Christine (David) Krisak and Wendy (Gary) Carter. He was also the fun uncle to many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, John (Suzanne) Sommer; and sister Janice (Charles) Arkangel.
Dave was a charmer who had an uncanny knack for remembering people’s names and faces. He loved his family, the outdoors, singing and telling stories about the great adventures in his life. He may be gone from our sight, but he will live forever in our hearts and our memories.
A Celebration of Life memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. on June 7, 2025. Visitation will continue until 3 p.m. at Burr Funeral Home, 116 South St., Chardon. The event will be livestreamed, which will be available by going to the Burr Funeral Home website and going to David’s obituary.
Arrangements are entrusted to Burr Funeral Home and Cremation Service. Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.burrservice.com.
