Marlynn Sommers

Marlynn was born April 28, 1931 in Vail, Arizona. Her mother ran the gas station in Vail before there was electricity. She was the third of eight children. She is survived by a sister Ellen (Shirley) Gallmann, and brothers Bud, Jim and Bill Matthews. She was preceded by her brothers George and John and sister Theresa Weiss.
Marlynn met her husband Robert (Bob) Sommers (deceased Nov. 22, 2011) when he was in the Air Force stationed at Davis Monthan in Tucson. They were married on July 4, 1951. When Bob was discharged from the Air Force he commenced working as a glazier in Tucson.
In 1958 Bob and Marlynn moved to Casa Grande and opened Sommers Glass & Mirror. For many years it was the only glass shop this side of Phoenix and serviced areas as far away as Sells, Gila Bend and Ajo. Bob and Marlynn worked side-by-side in the glass shop from the time they opened it downtown at Fourth and Marshall Streets until he retired in 1983 to manage their other business interests. The business moved to its present location at 501 E. Florence Blvd. in October 1962. In the early 80's the family purchased a pawn shop which they ran out of the front of the glass shop until it outgrew the space and moved next door, eventually evolving into Sommers Jewelers.
Marlynn and the family were very active over the years in the community supporting such organizations as the Valley Humane Society, Pinal County Council for CASA/Foster, Kiwanis, Police Trust Fund, Jaycees, Elks Club, Knights of Columbus, Zonta and St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church and school just to name a few. Marlynn had a generous heart and was always lending a helping hand to those less fortunate than her.
Marlynn and Bob had two sons Justin (47) and Chris (45) who they raised in Casa Grande. Justin is married to Jennilyn and they have two daughters Keziah (8) and Breanna (6). Chris is married to Karen and they have one son, Clay (27).
Marlynn has been the face of Sommers Glass & Mirror working six days a week for over 50 years. Many people will remember her talking parrot named Dolly that she used to take to work to entertain customers. Others will be familiar with her mini zoo of deer, monkeys, parrots, flamingoes, lemurs and llama among other creatures.
A viewing will be held Saturday, October 27 at 9 a.m. at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church, followed by the service at 10 a.m. and burial at Mountain View Cemetery in Casa Grande. A reception will be held from 11:30 a.m. at the St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Community Center. Everyone is welcome.
J. Warren Funeral Services Cole & Maud The Gardens Chapel is in charge of