Doris M. Sommer

Doris M. Sommer
Bay City, Michigan
Doris M. Sommer, a woman of creativity and thoughtfulness, passed away peacefully on November 4,2025 at the Symphony of Tri City Nursing Center in Bay City, Michigan. Born on April 23, 1946, in Bay City to the late Elmer E. and Dorothy (LaFlamme) Ingle, Doris's life was a tapestry of love, artistry, and dedication, woven with the threads of family, friendship, and community.
Doris's journey began as a bright student at St. James High School in Bay City, where she cultivated a foundation of knowledge and character that would guide her throughout her life. Her pursuit of education continued at Bay City Business College, equipping her with the skills that would later define her professional career. Doris retired from the Bay City Times, where her work ethic and attention to detail were as much a part of her legacy as the words that graced the pages.
Doris and her soulmate, Arthur "Art" Sommer, from their first date on the Saturday after Thanksgiving in 1965 and together they embarked on a 54-year-long adventure, after filled with love, laughter, and shared passions until Art's passing on October 16, 2019. Their union was blessed with two children, James (Frana) Sommer and Chantal (Chris) Kusmierski, who in turn filled Doris's life with the joy of grandchildren: Joshua, Quinn Sommer, Christina, Caleigh, and Chloe Kusmierski. Doris's love for her family was a radiant force, guiding them through life's ebbs and flows.
Doris's sister, Carol (Ron) Marande, and brother, Bob (Patti) Ingle, remember her as a source of inspiration and comfort, a woman whose presence was as warm as the quilts she crafted with such expertise. An accomplished quilter, Doris was an active member of the Heritage Quilt Guild, where her works of art were not only a testament to her skill but also to her belief in "Quality not Quantity," a philosophy she applied to every aspect of her life.
Traveling was another of Doris's joys, with a trip to New Zealand marking one of the most memorable experiences she shared with Art. Each journey they took enriched their lives with new perspectives and stories to share, a testament to Helen Keller's words, "Life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all."
Doris's legacy is one of an interesting, creative, and thoughtful life, where every encounter with her left an indelible mark of positivity. Her ability to see beauty in the mundane, to create warmth within the fabric of her community, and to offer kindness without expectation, defined her as a truly remarkable individual. The family would kind to extend a heartfelt "Thank you "" to Symphony of TriCity and Swan Hospice for their compassionate care.
Celebration of her life will be held at Rivertown Funeral Chapel on Saturday November 22, 2025 at 3 pm with Pastor Phillip Baerwolf presiding with private burial in Oak Ridge Cemetery. Family will greet friends at the funeral chapel from 1 to 4 pm on Saturday. Those wishing an expression of sympathy are asked to consider St. Judes Research Hospital.