Lynne Marie Sommerfeld, 81, of Alamo, Texas, passed away peacefully on June 5, 2026, in McAllen, Texas.
Lynne was born March 15, 1945, in Burlington, Iowa, to Vine Gehring and Hallie Strothman Gehring. She grew up on a farm south of Burlington, where she learned the values of hard work, faith, family, and perseverance. She graduated from Burlington High School and went on to attend Iowa Wesleyan College, earning a degree in Math and Education in 1967.
Lynne married Richard Sommerfeld in Burlington. Their 61-year marriage was a devoted partnership built on love, loyalty, friendship, and family. In 1971, they moved to Nebraska, where they lived for more than 40 years and became deeply rooted in the Seward community.
Lynne believed in education and lifelong learning. She began her career teaching high school mathematics in Iowa, then served for years as executive assistant to the principal of Seward High School. She worked as executive assistant to the general manager of Walker Manufacturing. At age 50, Lynne earned her MBA from the University of Nebraska and became Financial Controller of the Walker Manufacturing plant in Seward, retiring in 2007.
Lynne gave generously of her time and talents. She was active in Seward United Methodist Church, P.E.O., Optimist Club, choir, and community life. She was also a loyal Nebraska Husker fan. Friends and family will remember her intelligence, strength, kindness, gracious hospitality, and steady presence.
After retirement, Lynne and Richard moved to Alamo, Texas, where they continued to enjoy friendships from Seward while building many new ones. Lynne became an active and beloved member of the Alamo Country Club community. She enjoyed golf, book club, drama club, bridge, card groups, and social gatherings. She was a gracious host, a passionate card player, and a loyal friend to many.
Lynne is survived by her husband, Richard Sommerfeld; sister, Eyloe Vogelgesang; daughter, Denise Holmquist and husband James; son, Kevin Sommerfeld and wife Regina; and grandchildren, Kyle, Jared, Roman, and Bailey. She was preceded in death by her parents.
A Celebration of Life will be conducted later in the year at Alamo Country Club in Alamo, Texas. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to P.E.O at www.peointernational.org/make-a-gift (EN\TX Weslaco Chapter) or to Sea Turtle, Inc. at www.seaturtleinc.org.
Lynne’s legacy will live on through the family she cherished, the friendships she nurtured, and the many communities she strengthened.
