Gertrude "Gert" Somermeyer

Gertrude "Gert" M. Somermeyer, 89, of New Albin, IA, died Tuesday, March 12, 2013, at Good Samaritan Center in Waukon, IA. Memorial services will be Friday, March 15th, at 11:00 AM at St. Peter's Christian Community Church in New Albin with Pastor Kent Meyer officiating. Burial will be at St. Peter's Cemetery at a later date. Friends may call from 10:00 AM until the time of service on Friday at the church. Martin Funeral Home is Waukon is assisting the family with arrangements.


Gertrude Marie Somermeyer was born February 10, 1924, in Ludlow Township, Waukon, IA, the daughter of Benjamin and Laura (Renne) Bechtel. She was baptized and confirmed at Zion United Church of Christ in Waukon, and attended country schools. On July 23, 1941, Gert married Milton Somermeyer at Zion United Church of Christ. They farmed in the New Albin, IA area, and Gert also worked for Lansing Company, and factories in Spring Grove, MN, and New Albin.


Gert had belonged to the Order of the Eastern Star, and was an active member of St. Peter's Christian Community Church in New Albin. She enjoyed canning, gardening, cooking, and absolutely loved to dance; she and Milton also liked taking vacations and bus tours. Gert was a very handy lady, and was always willing to help someone out.


Gert is survived by her two sons: Don (Susie) Sommermeyer of New Albin, and Rev. Gary Sommermeyer of Southbury, CT; two grandsons: Eric (Kim) Sommermeyer of Tripoli, IA, and Jon Sommermeyer of New Albin; two sisters: Doris Sims of Cedar Rapids, IA, and Judy (Charles) Harlan of Des Moines, IA; along with numerous nieces and nephews.


She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband Milton, who died in 2003; four sisters: Inez Kurth, Gladys Beall, Bernice Deal, and Ruby Barr; and a brother Lloyd Bechtel.