Robin L. Sommer

SOMMER

Robin Sommer age 54, died peacefully in her sleep at her home in Rochester, MN. on December 2, 2016 from complications of cancer. Robin lived her life to benefit others and she was a Champion for those with disabilities. She played sports and excelled in school. Robin was selected as a High Achiever in 6th grade and lived the rest of her life as such. She graduated from Lincoln High School in Bloomington, MN in 1980 and went on to the University of Wisconsin at LaCrosse to major in Therapeutic Recreation. Robin then worked at Sunburst Youth Homes in Neillsville, WI, where she met her soulmate and husband Todd. Robin returned to U.W. LaCrosse and obtained her MBA. Robin and Todd settled in Rochester, MN after they were married on April 1, 1995. Robin spent a couple years working for PossAbilities of Southern Minnesota and the rest of her professional career as Developmental Disabilities Program Manager for Olmsted County, MN. Robin also assisted her friend Pam in founding Coastal Studies for girls in Maine.

Robin is survived by her husband Todd Sommer of Rochester, MN; parents Richard and Anice Gessner of Bloomington, MN.; nephews and nieces Jonathan Mussetter (Lacey), Jake McCormick, Stephanie Mussetter, and Emily McCormick; sisters, Ruthanne Mussetter (Kevin) of Richfield, MN and Amy McCormick and Charlie Garcia of Eau Claire, WI; mother-in-law Karen Sommer (Marlyn) and brother-in-law Mark Sommer (Amanda and her daughter Olivia) all from Missoula, MT.

Robins legacy is her impact on the disabled community. She relaxed and enjoyed her recreational time with Todd camping at their pond, their annual fishing trip in Bemidji, MN and occasional trips to the casino. Robin enjoyed supporting her Minnesota sports teams, decorating her home for the holidays, and choosing, wrapping, and giving beautiful packages. She will be missed by more people than can be counted.

Memorial services will be held 12:00 noon on Saturday, December 10, 2016 at Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes, 5421 Royal Place NW, Rochester, MN. Visitation will be held from 4:00 8:00 pm Friday, December 9, 2016 at Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Homes and 1 hr. prior to the service on Saturday at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, please make memorial donations to the Rochester Chapter of Civitan International or the American Cancer Society.

To share a special memory or condolence, please visit www.ranfranzandvinefh.com

Amy Miller wrote on Dec 27, 2018:

"My name is Amy Miller robin was my best social worker "

Denny Theede wrote on Dec 12, 2016:

Wes Bradford wrote on Dec 12, 2016:

Karen wrote on Dec 11, 2016:

Jon Sasseville wrote on Dec 11, 2016:

Lisa Roelofs wrote on Dec 11, 2016:

Karen Paskett wrote on Dec 11, 2016:

"To the Gessner and Sommer family, I'm am so sorry for your loss. I grow up with Robin on 87th St. I haven't seen her for many many years. She was always such a sweet person. It sounds like she had the biggest heart ever. You all will be in my prayers! RIP Robin "

Karen Paskett wrote on Dec 11, 2016:

Steve & Pam Kumpf wrote on Dec 10, 2016:

Paul & Kat Weiler wrote on Dec 10, 2016:

"Todd - Wish we could have made it to the funeral, but it was not in the cards. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and the rest of the family. May the wonderful memories of Robin help you through the years that follow. Her time on earth ended way too early....God Bless.Paul & Kat Weiler"

Harold and Sheryl snortheim wrote on Dec 10, 2016:

Julius and Karen Julson wrote on Dec 9, 2016:

"As we can see from the Guest book entries, Robin was a very special person to so many people, including us. We will miss her, what a blessing to have known her."

ROB AND KIM HANSEN wrote on Dec 9, 2016:

Rhonda Roebuck McDonald wrote on Dec 9, 2016:

Expression of Sympathy wrote on Dec 9, 2016:

" A DIGNITY IN WHITE was sent by SEMCIL on December 9, 2016 "

Dana Sigrist wrote on Dec 9, 2016:

SMB Homes wrote on Dec 9, 2016:

Linda Driessen wrote on Dec 9, 2016:

Tami Hamernik wrote on Dec 9, 2016:

Corrine, Anika and Katie Erickson wrote on Dec 9, 2016:

Patty Ward wrote on Dec 9, 2016:

Becky Kruger wrote on Dec 8, 2016:

"I met Robin when our family needed help finding answers for our DD brother. Thank you for your expert advice and especially for the love that you extended to us. Robin, you helped us all change for the better. You did Good!"

Andrew McCormick wrote on Dec 8, 2016:

Expression of Sympathy wrote on Dec 8, 2016:

" A GRANDMA'S GARDENTABLE BASKET was sent on December 8, 2016 Our family is keeping you in our thoughts and prayers. With sincere sympathy, Bill and Jenny Schuette, Lance and Mary Schuette, Theresa Larson, Rexanne and Mike Braun, Luci and Troy Hardrath, Katy and Nick Dommer, Missy and Ryan Kalepp, Tami and Matt Johnson. "

Don and Helen Steele wrote on Dec 8, 2016:

Cheryl Weiler Back wrote on Dec 8, 2016:

"So sorry for your loss, Todd. May you find peace in your memories."

Sherry Hansen-Kusay wrote on Dec 8, 2016:

Expression of Sympathy wrote on Dec 8, 2016:

" A MONET'S GARDEN TABLE BASKET was ordered on December 8, 2016 "

Jodi Austin-Thompson wrote on Dec 8, 2016:

Joel & Jennifer Pralle wrote on Dec 8, 2016:

Brenda Hoffman wrote on Dec 8, 2016:

Polly Owens wrote on Dec 8, 2016:

Roxanne Jilaow wrote on Dec 8, 2016:

Amy wrote on Dec 7, 2016:

"You meant the world to her, Rox. She loved you and I do too!"

Amy wrote on Dec 7, 2016:

Steve/Lisa Roelofs wrote on Dec 7, 2016:

"Every now and then someone comes along who absolutely changes lives for the better for all they come into contact with, a person who gives without any expectation of thanks, a person who lives each day to it's fullest, a person who in all the years we knew her never seemed to have a bad day, a person who cared for all and not just some, a person whose legacy lives on in all those she served---pretty incredible person!"

Bill Kleis wrote on Dec 7, 2016:

"Todd and family,It was a tremendous gift to get to know Robin when I was on the board for PossAbilities. Her positive attitude and zest for life were even better than her wonderful professionalism. Being part of her family had to be a great gift and now a great loss. Like someone said, she has to be an angel somewhere now. With sympathy,Bill Kleis"

Joel Berg wrote on Dec 7, 2016:

John & Laurie Bielby wrote on Dec 7, 2016:

"Todd, Love and support from your family and friends will help you through this time in your life. Your memories will live forever."

Lynne McKaige (Fligge) wrote on Dec 7, 2016:

"My sincere condolences to the Family of Robin.I was a 1979 graduate of Lincoln and remember Robin and Ruthanne very well.May the memories you have stay close in your heart as they will warm you on the coldest of days ahead.May God be with you all as your mourn her loss."

Beth Brandt wrote on Dec 7, 2016:

Odie wrote on Dec 7, 2016:

"I will never forget Robin's beautiful smile and how it could light up a room. She was an amazing person. I still have the gift she gave me when I was no longer able to work (of course a joke) and smile every time I use. Sorry for your loss."

Donna Garratt wrote on Dec 7, 2016:

Lori Callahan wrote on Dec 7, 2016:

Aimee Irlbeck wrote on Dec 7, 2016:

Lisa (Copeland) Clark wrote on Dec 7, 2016:

Paul & Dawn Christenson wrote on Dec 7, 2016:

"Ruthanne and family, Robin has a special place set aside just for her because of her special heart for disabilities. Our condolences on your loss. Paul and Dawn"

Marilyn Wachsmuth wrote on Dec 7, 2016:

"God wanted an angel for christmas so he picked robin. Len and i send our love and prayers to todd and family. We loved robin. Your aunt and uncle"

SECOND COUSINS Sue and Jim Raredon wrote on Dec 7, 2016:

Arden and Annella Peterson wrote on Dec 7, 2016:

Paul Pedersen wrote on Dec 7, 2016:

Lonnie Oeltjen wrote on Dec 6, 2016:

Debbie Henry wrote on Dec 6, 2016:

Expression of Sympathy wrote on Dec 6, 2016:

" A GRANDMA'S GARDENTABLE BASKET was sent on December 6, 2016 We feel so honored to have known Robin. Love Edith & Debbie "

Lisa Welna Genson wrote on Dec 6, 2016:

"I knew Robin back when we were in elementary school. We played together at her house or mine. I have great memories that I'll cherish forever. Robin was always the kindest soul. Rest in peace, Robin."

Julie Finn wrote on Dec 6, 2016:

"My deepest condolences to Robin's husband and family. I was privileged to serve on the Board of Coastal Studies for Girls with her. She kept in touch by sending a holiday card every year. Will greatly miss hearing from her. My thoughts are with you.Julie Finn"

Connie C. wrote on Dec 6, 2016:

her friend Jenny wrote on Dec 6, 2016:

Her friend Jenny wrote on Dec 6, 2016:

"My deepest sympathy. I am going to miss Robin so so much!!! She was the best support I could ever have in fighting for my rights and making sure i got the best care I could!!! I am so sad about her passing. Even though she is gone from this life, i know she is still looking out for me in heaven with our dear Lord. Dear Lord, thank you for the blessing of Robin in my life all these years. Jenny"

LuAnn wrote on Dec 6, 2016:

"To Robin's family. I am so sorry for your loss. I got to know Robin about 10 years ago when I started to work with her. She was a beautiful person inside and out!!!! While we had a working relationship, we also developed a personal relationship, She was a deeply caring person and definitely one of the best advocates I have ever had the privilege to work with. Thank you Robin for being the wonderful person you were and I am sure your advocacy and sense of humor will continue to be a blessing to all you meet in heaven."

Jules, Robin you will forever be in my heart, .. wrote on Dec 6, 2016:

LuAnn Thielges wrote on Dec 6, 2016:

Jeff Eveslage wrote on Dec 6, 2016:

Carla Counters wrote on Dec 6, 2016:

"This is so incredibly sad to hear! I grew up with Robin and went to school with her in Bloomington, MN. She had the most beautiful smile and the best sense of humor! You could never be in a bad mood around her because she always found a way to cheer you up. Heaven gained a beautiful angel with a lot of experience because she was a loving, caring and kind Angel for 54 years here on earth. I feel Blessed to have known her. My condolences to her husband , family and all who loved her."

Expression of Sympathy wrote on Dec 6, 2016:

" A MOUNTAIN MEADOWPEDESTAL ARRANGEMENT was ordered on December 6, 2016 "

Helen Monsees wrote on Dec 6, 2016:

Ruthanne Mussetter wrote on Dec 6, 2016:

Betty Richardson wrote on Dec 6, 2016:

Kris Kolhoff wrote on Dec 6, 2016:

"Robin was such a beautiful person inside & out. Her fabulous smile, wonderful sense of humor, caring for others and ability to make everyone feel special will be greatly missed. Her loss is immeasurable in our community. My thoughts and prayers go out to her family."

Tanya Harder wrote on Dec 6, 2016:

Paul & Kris Henning wrote on Dec 6, 2016:

Jackie LeTourneau wrote on Dec 6, 2016:

Jill Davison wrote on Dec 6, 2016:

Mark Landin wrote on Dec 6, 2016:

Jane Clark wrote on Dec 6, 2016:

Kim wrote on Dec 5, 2016:

"A blessing to everyone who knew her!! Prayers for your family!"

Kim wrote on Dec 5, 2016:

Brie Thompson wrote on Dec 5, 2016:

Karen Applen - Olmsted County Veteran Services wrote on Dec 5, 2016:

Lancy Landwehr wrote on Dec 5, 2016:

Renee Edmonds wrote on Dec 5, 2016:

Rochester Civitan Club wrote on Dec 5, 2016:

Chandra Dennison (Karsten) wrote on Dec 5, 2016:

Marge Dent wrote on Dec 5, 2016:

Carol B. wrote on Dec 5, 2016:

Katy Hughes wrote on Dec 5, 2016:

Amy wrote on Dec 5, 2016:

Roxy Daily (Balliette) wrote on Dec 5, 2016:

Mary Allison wrote on Dec 5, 2016:

Jake wrote on Dec 5, 2016:

Connie Walker wrote on Dec 5, 2016:

Roxy Daily (Balliette) wrote on Dec 5, 2016:

"I was lucky enough have Robin as my roommate at Laux in LaCrosse then her little sister, Amy in the Marching Chiefs drumline with me. I have a lot of wonderful memories of Robin as she was such a special lady and friend. I am so sorry for your loss. Love, Roxy"

Patti Miller wrote on Dec 5, 2016:

Carol (Volkmann) Zanto wrote on Dec 5, 2016:

Shannon Gruhlke & Lois Lane Michaelson wrote on Dec 5, 2016:

Mark H wrote on Dec 5, 2016:

Dawn Kyllo.........Robin, rest in peace.......... wrote on Dec 5, 2016:

Heather - Rest in peace Robin. wrote on Dec 5, 2016:

Tara Stoflet wrote on Dec 5, 2016:

"Robin,I just loved visiting with you every time we saw each other at family gatherings. I didn't get the chance to see you last summer. Your smile lit up the room. I am so sad that you had to leave us. You will be missed greatly. Love--Tara"

Marshall & Diane Peterson wrote on Dec 5, 2016:

Russ and Jo Lynn Anderson wrote on Dec 5, 2016:

Jo Lynn and Russ Anderson wrote on Dec 5, 2016:

"We are still in shock and disbelief! Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers."

Jayne kruger wrote on Dec 5, 2016:

Les Duncan wrote on Dec 5, 2016:

Andrea Light wrote on Dec 5, 2016:

Kevin Smith wrote on Dec 5, 2016:

Lori Johnson wrote on Dec 5, 2016:

Kristen Kunert wrote on Dec 5, 2016:

May your spirit live on through those you touch.. wrote on Dec 5, 2016:

Ellen Turner wrote on Dec 5, 2016:

Karen Sommer wrote on Dec 5, 2016:

"Robin was as beautiful inside as outside. She exuded "Goodness"."

Lori Johnson wrote on Dec 5, 2016:

"I was shocked to hear about Robin's passing. She was my cousin. I will always remember waiting for Robin, Amy and Ruthanne to come visit at Great Aunt Anna's house. I have many great memories. Hugs and love to all!"

Kristina Miller wrote on Dec 5, 2016:

Mike Portner wrote on Dec 5, 2016:

Joleen Predmore wrote on Dec 5, 2016:

Nicole Brueck wrote on Dec 5, 2016:

"Robin will be missed beyond measure by those who loved her, those she mentored, those she worked with and those who she interacted with just a few times. There are few people in the world who will truly leave a legacy of championing those with disabilities. Robin is one of those people."

Ryan Buckingham wrote on Dec 5, 2016:

Nikki Beckman wrote on Dec 5, 2016:

Neil Sorensen wrote on Dec 5, 2016:

Anne Wixon Meyer wrote on Dec 5, 2016:

Rochester MN wrote on Dec 5, 2016:

"So sorry for your loss. Robin was a great lady always smiling. we laughed alot together...Even when things were hard."

Karolee Adler wrote on Dec 5, 2016:

Noni wrote on Dec 5, 2016:

Ramona (Hake) Back; Donna (Hake) Schultz wrote on Dec 5, 2016:

"Todd, so very sorry to hear of this sad, sad news. Our sincerest sympathy to you and your family."

Terri Kaczorowski wrote on Dec 5, 2016:

"Robin will be dearly missed. There will forever be a void in our work place, in our own lives, the lives of the people we serve, and in our hearts. To Robin's family, please know how sorry we are for your loss. She was is an incredible person, who I feel fortunate to have known."

Joan-Marie Stier wrote on Dec 5, 2016:

Jennifer B-W, Robin, I love you so bad!!!! wrote on Dec 5, 2016:

Amber Anderson wrote on Dec 5, 2016:

Sheila (Limbert) Frey wrote on Dec 5, 2016:

"While I hadn't spoken with Robin in a very long time, I often thought of her, and of her sweet spirit! In fact, I recently came across a gift she had given me back in 6th grade! I am so very sorry to hear of her death, but I am certain she has joined with the choir in heaven."

Ardie Limbert wrote on Dec 5, 2016:

"Anice and Dick, My deepest sympathy to you folks...Robin was such a sweet girl and she and Sheila were good friends. Sounds like she had a productive life..I am so sorry. Ardie and Jerry Limbert"

Abbie Willis. You will be missed beyond words R.. wrote on Dec 5, 2016:

JoAnn Lawler wrote on Dec 5, 2016:

Charity Floen - I will miss our pizza nights! wrote on Dec 5, 2016:

Karen and Chloe Buckingham wrote on Dec 5, 2016:

Charity Floen wrote on Dec 5, 2016:

"Robin will be so missed by so many. She was a delight to work with and had so much joy to share with everyone! My sympathy to all of her family. She loved all of you!"

Dan Judd wrote on Dec 5, 2016:

Mia Corrigan wrote on Dec 5, 2016:

Julie Kloeckl wrote on Dec 5, 2016:

Deb Dimler wrote on Dec 5, 2016:

Emily wrote on Dec 5, 2016:

Leah Holmes wrote on Dec 5, 2016:

Cindy Smith wrote on Dec 4, 2016:

Cindy Stenzel wrote on Dec 4, 2016:

Terri Kaczorowski wrote on Dec 4, 2016:

Jill Draayer wrote on Dec 4, 2016:

Kristin Nagel wrote on Dec 4, 2016:

Shirley Woodward wrote on Dec 4, 2016:

Barbara Pappin. Shine on, Robin!! wrote on Dec 4, 2016:

Linda Howard wrote on Dec 4, 2016:

Mary O'Neil wrote on Dec 4, 2016:

Sarala wrote on Dec 4, 2016:

Amy Frisch wrote on Dec 4, 2016:

"In memory of Robin..... my thoughts and prayers are with Robin's family and friends. She touched so many lives in such a special way including my own. Robin was a very special lady and now a very special angel. She will be missed immensely."

Janice Hobbs wrote on Dec 4, 2016:

Peg Baumgartner wrote on Dec 4, 2016:

"Robin will be missed. Her humor, kindness, and outgoing personality were such a wonderful addition to our Sommer family. Hang in there, Todd. We are thinking of you."

Sharon Laures wrote on Dec 4, 2016:

Becky Frey wrote on Dec 4, 2016:

Nancy Johnson wrote on Dec 4, 2016:

"Robin was the most selfless person I knew. She always put other people before herself. I will miss her so much as I truly loved her! I am so lucky she was in my life! I am so sorry Todd and family."

Cindy Yates wrote on Dec 4, 2016:

Mardie Shager wrote on Dec 4, 2016:

Karen Sommer wrote on Dec 4, 2016:

Paula McGuine wrote on Dec 4, 2016:

Expression of Sympathy wrote on Dec 3, 2016:

" A BASKET GARDEN was sent by Pam Erickson and ML Stone on December 3, 2016 "

Expression of Sympathy wrote on Dec 3, 2016:

" A SHADES OF ELEGANCE was sent by 180 Degrees - Von Wald on December 3, 2016 "

Von Wald wrote on Dec 3, 2016:

Beth Honecker wrote on Dec 3, 2016:

Linda Eisterhold wrote on Dec 3, 2016:

Sarah Timmerman wrote on Dec 3, 2016:

In loving memory of

Robin L. Sommer
January 11, 1962 - December 2, 2016

Tributes