Ron Sommer

Mr. Ron Sommer of Fredonia passed away at his home on Aug. 9, 2025, at the age of 78. while surrounded by his loving family.

Ronald was born in Port Washington on April 11, 1947, the son of Roland and Ruth (nee Wick) Sommer.  

He grew up in Mequon and attended local schools, graduating from Homestead High School in 1965.  Ron attended Milwaukee Area Technical College, where he completed his associate degree before enlisting in the U.S. Army.

On Sept. 18, 1976, Ron was united in marriage with Mary Blake at St. Cecelia Catholic Church in Thiensville. The couple settled in the Town of Cedarburg and started their family. They moved to their beloved farm property in Fredonia in 1994. Mary preceded Ron in death in 2018.

Mr. Sommer was a sought-after machinist in the tanning industry. He spent more than 48 years in the trade, including 30 years at Pfister and Vogel Tannery in Milwaukee and  WB Place in Hartford and 15 years at Seidel Tanning Co. in Milwaukee, where he remained until health issues forced him to retire at the end of 2024. 

Ron was a member of St. John XXIII Catholic Parish, Immaculate Conception Church in Saukville. 

He loved spending time outside in his large garden or just tending to things on his property. Ron also loved spending time with his grandchildren.

Those left to cherish his memory include his four children, James (Jessica) Sommer, Jason (Amanda) Sommer, Sara Nelson and Ashley Braddy; seven grandchildren, Hannah (fiance Jonny), Blake, Emily, Lili, Ellie, Ryder and Ronnie; and two stepgrandchildren, Hadley and Lucus. 

He is further survived by special niece and nephew Cortnie and Justin Blake, whom he treated as his own children, brother Russell (Bonnie) Sommer, sisters Susan (the late Michael) Wigderson, Sally (Jim) Sommer, and Sharon Sommer, sister-in-law Joan (the late Michael) Sommer, nieces, nephews, other family members and friends.

Per Ron’s request, no formal services will be held.

Eernisse Funeral Home is assisting the family.

Online condolences may be left at www.eernissefuneralhome.com.