James Lavaughn Somers passed away peacefully on July 12, 2011, at Froedtert Hospital. Jim was born in Portland, IN, on January 19, 1944, to Ralph L. and Matilda Fay Somers. He married Carol S. (Zorn) Somers on January 25, 1964. He graduated from Purdue University with a doctorate of Industrial Engineering and retired as a Senior Officer of Manufacturing and Technology at Snap-on Tools, Inc. in 1995. Jim was a member of St. Mary’s Lutheran Church in Kenosha, WI, past officer of AAII, and past Professional Engineer. He is survived by his wife, Carol S. (Zorn) Somers. Surviving children are Michael J. Somers (Kimberly Nye) of Broadlands, VA; Jeffrey C. Somers (Terri Somers) of Oshkosh, WI; Gregory S. Somers of Madison, WI and Daniel P. Somers (Melissa Merwin) of Minneapolis, MN. Grandchildren include Lea N. Zeise of Madison, WI, and Nathaniel C. Somers and Matthew E. Somers of Oshkosh, WI. A brother, Donald L. Somers (Carol J. Somers) resides in Portland, IN. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph and Fay Somers, and granddaughter, Elizabeth M. Somers. Visitation will be held from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. on Friday, July 15th, at St. Mary's Lutheran Church, 2001-80th Street, Kenosha, WI. Services will be held at the church on Saturday, July 16th, at 10:00 a.m. with visitation one hour before the service. Interment will be at Green Ridge Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St Mary's Lutheran Church, the Shalom Center or the American Cancer Society.Proko Funeral Home & Crematory5111-60th StreetKenosha, WI 53144Phone: (262) 654-3533Visit James Online Memorial Book at:www.prokofuneralhome.com
Condolences
Reyn and Doris Kamphuis
July 18, 2011
Our hearts go out to you, Carol, and to your family. Though we’re only recent Florida church friends, we were quickly drawn to you both. We so clearly witnessed your beautiful relationship. How Jim treasured you and how he enjoyed his children and grandchildren. What a zest and excellent example for life! We were so very sorry to learn of Jim’s sudden passing… You and your family are in our sincerest thoughts and prayers. In God’s Love, Reyn and Doris Kamphuis
Aunt Mary and Family
July 18, 2011
We are so saddened by the loss of Jimmy. He will be missed.
Beth Ann Miller Arthur
July 16, 2011
My sympathy to you, Carol, and your family. I don't think I have seen Jim since our high school graduation. I remember talking with him by phone when I was at Indiana University and telling him about a disagreement with a fellow PHS grad and his response was that with friends like that I didn't need enemies. It was good advice. And that's how I remember Jim, as a level headed man of few words. Many years have passed since I've had contact with him but I'm honored to have known him. He was a good soul. A bright man. A dedicated individual. He left the world a better place. His was a life well lived.
Bob & Carol Breckenridge
July 15, 2011
Dear Friend, What can we say - we're so very sorry, we're so saddened at the news, you have our deepest sympathy? Nothing seems to be enough to fully express how we feel. Our hearts, thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family. Love, Bob & Carol B.
Georgianne Sampson
July 15, 2011
Jim will be long remembered for his quick smile, his generosity, his talents, his caring heart, and his strong faith in God. We will truly miss him. Our hearts go out to Carol, sons and family. God Bless them All. Georgianne and Jack Sampson
John Sherman
July 14, 2011
Jim was a good friend during our Portland High School days. It was with great sadness that we learned of his death. He was always witty, a great and loyal friend, and a very bright guy. Those of us from the class of 1962 recall him with such fondness and wish Carol and their family our sympathy.
Jim and Joan Merwin
July 14, 2011
Dan we are so sorry for the loss of your father. We also would like to extend our deepest sympathy to your entire family. Cherishing the time you had together with your dad and the memories you have will keep him close to your heart forever. Take care in these heartfelt times. If there is anything you need please just ask.
Tom & Kristen Kief (Schnabel)
July 14, 2011
Carol & Family, Your kindness to me as a child was appreciated and is remembered. I am sorry to hear about Jim's death, but happy he didn't suffer. Tom and I wish you peace in this sad time. Kristen
Jan Behrens
July 14, 2011
Dear Carol and family, Betty and Bruce have kept me informed of Jim's illness and death. I wanted you to know that you have been in my thoughts and prayers. You also will continue in those prayers for peace and comfort. I know nothing I can say to all of you will change any of these events. Just know that you are being held up to God. Peace, Jan
Don and Carol Camosy
July 14, 2011
With shock, sympathy and blessings to Carol and family. We are left with fond memories of a wonderful man. He will be missed for his many talents, community service and the man he was. Hugs and prayers, Carol and Don
Karen Kiesler
July 14, 2011
So shocked and saddened to read news of the passing of Jim. I was honored to get to know him through personal training at the Rec Plex. He was a very pleasant person to work with and get to know! What a nice and sincerely genuine gentleman! I think I learned as much from him as he did from me! (I hope!) He will be missed! My thoughts and prayers go out to his whole family in their loss. Sincerely,Karen Kiesler
Pam Drummond
July 14, 2011
Carol and family,My condolences to you and your family. My thoughts are with you at this sad time.
Steven Carney
July 14, 2011
My sincere condolences. Years ago, Jim gave approval for the company (Snap-on)to pay for my college undergrad program. I then went on for my masters. His guidance and direction toward education was a pivotal time in my life. Jim was a great man. He stood out from others and was an inspiration to me (to this day)... I know he had a tremendous impact on many people at Snap-on. It was an honor to know him. He will be missed... God bless your family...
Jay & Kathy Schnabel
July 14, 2011
Carol & Family We celebrate Jim's life and Praise God he is now home and at peace. We are blessed because we knew Jim and he touched our lives, as he did many others. Jim was always ready to help in any way he could, and usually with a smile. He and his abilities truly will be missed. Love ya, God Bless, Kathy & Jay Schnabel
Carol Orr and family
July 14, 2011
Carol & family,If comforting thoughts can help see you through this loss, please know that you are in my prayers as I reflect fondly on the family times Jim spent with us.He will be sadly missed by all. Carol
Scott & Ronda (Johnston) Messer
July 13, 2011
Carol & family,Words can't begin to express our sympathies to you at this time. Please know that your family is praying for you and is here for you in any way we can be. May God's peace surround you in the days, weeks ahead!!Scott & Ronda (Johnston) Messer
Joan Davies
July 13, 2011
It is hard to express the sadness I feel because of the sudden turn of events in your lives. When someone remarked on the strength of Jim's faith, your response, "He's a keeper!" was so telling. Carol, you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Joan