Owen J. Sommers, 98 of Valparaiso, IN, passed away Tuesday, July 22, 2025. He was born December 4, 1926, in Louisville, OH to the late John and Bertha (Taylor) Sommers. Owen made his career as a self-employed residential contractor, building houses throughout Porter County and Ohio for over 40 years. He was a founding member of the Porter County Builder’s Association, and a current member of St. John’s United Church in Chesterton. Owen volunteered with Habitat for Humanity, and traveled abroad to help build houses for those in need. He loved to travel with his wife, Martha, and together they traveled to all 50 states and every continent except Antarctica. Owen also enjoyed singing in the choir at church, and singing in a family quartet with his brothers. Owen was known to be a well-liked and well-respected man. He will be dearly missed.
On February 21, 1948, Owen married Martha Mae Domer, who preceded him in death in 2014. He is survived by their children: Alan (Karen) Sommers of Chesterton, IN, Gail Dedrick of Schererville, IN, and Mark (Anne) Sommers of Tucson, AZ; grandchildren: Stephanie (Gene) Stout, Steven Dedrick, Brian (Amanda) Dedrick, Mike Sommers, Mathew Sommers, Matthew (Cathy) Noll, and Meredith (Kyle) Luther; 9 great-grandchildren; siblings: Merle (Rebecca) Sommers of Goshen, IN and Lavera (Paul) Helmuth of Louisville, OH; companion, Shirley Kneifel; and former son-in-law, Doug Dedrick. He was preceded in death by 7 siblings.
A memorial service will be held on August 16, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at St. John’s United Church, 225 W. Lincoln Ave., Chesterton, with a meal to follow. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. John’s United Church, 225 W. Lincoln Ave., Chesterton, IN 46304, or Dunes Hospice, 4711 Evans Ave., Valparaiso, IN 46383.
GUESTBOOK
Rejoicing Owen is no longer suffering and is at home with his savior! I know mom Shirley (his wife) is rejoicing as well. -Michelle Kneifel
Dear Gail and family, I am so sorry to hear of your fathers passing. May you be blessed with Gods Love during this difficult time. -Ray Hewlett
Wonderful man. He and Martha were good friends with my mom and dad. RIP Owen! -Robert McGill
Owen was a great friend of the family; dad's best friend. There are so very few people whom I have respected as much. Rest in peace good and faithful servant. -Terry Paarlberg
Owen and Martha were wonderful friends and caring neighbors for many years on Calhoun Ct. Owen was a true gentleman. We are so sorry for your loss but happy to think that he is reunited with Martha again. Wishing your family peace and comfort. Sincerely, -Susanna (Young) Gulbrandsen, Lauren and David
