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Barbara S. Sommer

December 08, 1944 - February 28, 2014

Text:

Obituary For Barbara S. Sommer

December 8, 1944 - February 28, 2014

Sommer, Barbara Suzanne Midgley

Of Bethel Park, passed to the Lord peacefully on February 28, 2014.

Preceded in death by her parents, Robert Midgley and Marie Herrmann. Barbara is survived by William, her husband of 46 years; sons, Mark and Matthew and daughter, Teresa and their respective spouses, Audra, Julie and Andrew. Also survived by her sister Lynda, grandchildren, nieces, nephews and many friends. Barbara attended Saint Philip Grade School and Holy Innocents High School. Barbara graduated from the University of Dayton, Class of 1966 Cum Laude in the School of Social Work. Upon graduation, Barbara worked as a case worker for the Department of Public Welfare. While her husband was in the Air Force stationed in Europe, Barbara taught English and Math at the base to prepare enlistees for their GED diploma. In her early forties, Barbara decided to become a nurse. She was the oldest student in her class and graduated with honors. She did floor nursing, hospice and wound care. She performed these duties until 1999 when she was diagnosed with MS, which made it impossible to work. However, that did not stop her. Barbara took classes on her own to become a volunteer parish nurse, which she did for several years. She was on the team that started the vial for life concept in Bethel Park and volunteered for numerous other endeavors: scout den mother, girl's softball manager, Saint Sylvester's Church council for 12 years, Brentwood Library Board and was a committee member of Brentwood Boro's revitalization program known as Brentaissance. Barbara was always up for a good time, liked parties and socials and ran 10 miles in the Pittsburgh Marathon. She was the prime instigator in having her husband rekindle his love for motorcycles. She once said, at a car cruise, that with that shiny chrome, a Harley would look nice in our garage. Barbara enjoyed riding back seat on long distance motorcycle rides including three trips to Rolling Thunder in commemoration of Viet Nam Vets and riding the entire east coast. Barbara's family would like to thank all who helped and cared for her throughout her ordeal with MS, especially Dr. Shih-Chieh Lo, Dr. Rock Heyman and Dr. Amenda Harrington; Team 14 members, Ray, Mandy and Sue; her home caregivers, Sharon, Lori, Chris and Mary; her caseworker Robin and the entire Family Hospice & Palliative Care team, especially nurse Melissa. Visitation will be held Wednesday and Thursday from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. at John F. Slater Funeral Home, Inc., 412-881-4100, 4201 Brownsville Road, Brentwood 15227, where Funeral Services will be held on Friday at 9:30 a.m. Memorial contributions can be made to National MS Society, 1501 Reedsdale Street, #105, Pittsburgh, PA 15233.

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Condolences

  • December 11, 2019

    So sorry about Barbara, if you need someone to talk to call me.

  • December 11, 2019

    Bill and Family: Please accept my sincere sympathy on the loss of Barbara. Your marriage was an inspiration showing kindness and compassion. It was not easy but your family's strength and courage through difficult times is a wonderful example of the Christian spirit. I'm sorry I was unable to be there to personally express my sympathy but I am indeed sorry for the loss of the love of your life. Pat Meute

  • December 11, 2019

    Mrs. Sommer was very sweet and kind. We wish you all love and comfort! God bless. Toni Brown & family

  • December 11, 2019

    We met Barb through Mark and Audra at various parties at Mark and Audra's house. Even though she was ill she seemed always upbeat. May God rest her soul. Tammy & Ron

  • December 11, 2019

    Matt and Family We are so sorry for your loss. What a wonderful family your Mom molded together! We are sharing your sorrow, sending you love and wishing you peace. Our hearts go with you.

  • December 11, 2019

    It has been my pleasure to be Barb's computer consultant for the last several years. Learning to her was a habit and she always had a new set of questions for me. God bless Barb and my dear friend, Bill.

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