Lance R. Sommerfeld

Lance Robert Sommerfeld, age 69, passed away peacefully surrounded by family in his home on June 10, 2025.
Born on September 21, 1955, in Green Bay, Wisconsin, Lance was the son of the late Robert and June Sommerfeld. He grew up in East Green Bay and graduated from Premontre High School in 1973. Lance cherished his childhood summers spent at his grandma and grandpa Sommerfelds' cabin, where he and his brother Kevin created countless memories fishing, exploring, and simply being boys in the great outdoors. This passion for nature was also realized as Lance served as the vice-president for the De Pere Sportsmen's Club with his particular talent for archery.
A skilled craftsman and dedicated home builder, Lance spent much of his professional life constructing homes and creating spaces for families to grow and thrive. Beyond his career, he had a deep appreciation for the outdoors. Whether it was hunting, fishing, or hitting the trails on his 4-wheeler, Lance found peace and adventure in nature. He especially loved sharing these passions with his son and grandson-hunting and fishing trips with them were among his most treasured moments.
He was also a gifted woodworker who enjoyed building custom furniture pieces. His creativity extended into another unique hobby-designing and racing custom RC cars, a passion he joyfully shared with his son and grandson.
Lance met the love of his life, Cathy, in 1975 while they were working for the same company. Their connection was immediate, and they were married on August 14, 1976. In April 1983, they welcomed their son, Chase, into the world-a moment that brought Lance immense pride and joy.
Lance is survived by his beloved wife of 48 years, Cathy; his son Chase and daughter-in-law Kara; and his cherished grandson, Tucker. He is also survived by; his sister Terri (Dennis) Campbell, and their children Dean (Karen) Campbell, Dace (Susan) Campbell, and Tina Campbell (Chris Arjuna). Sister Debbie Hoppe, and her children Tonya (Todd) Young, and Shane (Robin) Hoppe. Brother Kevin Sommerfeld, and his children Beth Sommerfeld, Todd Sommerfeld, and Laura (Brett) Junio; Brother-in-law Pat Clabots and Sister-in-law Nancy (Bill) Craig. He is further survived by many nieces, nephews, and extended family members who will remember him fondly for his warmth, humor, and generous spirit.
He is preceded in death by his loving parents Robert and June Sommerfeld, sister-in-law Margaret Sommerfeld, and brother-in-law Dan Hoppe.
Lance's legacy lives on in the homes he built, the furniture he crafted, and the memories he created with those he loved most. He will be deeply missed.
Family and friends may gather on Saturday, June 14, 2025, at Ryan Funeral Home, 305 N. Tenth Street, De Pere, for visitation beginning at 2:00 PM until 5:00 PM with a memorial service officiated by Deacon Kevin DeCleene to conclude the evening.
The family asks that you honor Lance by spending time outdoors, building something with your hands, or sharing a laugh - as he was known for cracking a joke and the best and worst of times.