Howard Sommerfeld

Howard Allen Sommerfeld, age 77, of Lacy-Lakeview, passed away Monday afternoon, October 20, 2025 at Baylor Scott & White Hillcrest Hospital in Waco, while surrounded by his family.

A Funeral Service will be held 10:00 a.m. Friday, October 24, 2025 at West Brethren Church in West, with Brother Terry crawford officiating. Burial will follow at West Brethren Cemetery. The family will receive visitors from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Thursday at Aderhold Funeral Home Chapel.

He was born on February 24, 1948, in Clifton, to the late Lawrence and Sydonia (Zander) Sommerfeld. Howard graduated from Clifton High School in 1968 and further pursued his education at TSTC, investing in his future and setting a tone of hard work that defined his life. On November 22, 1973, Howard was united in marriage to Elizabeth Girard in Abbott. Their union blossomed into a deep partnership that lasted a lifetime. Together, they nurtured a family, creating a loving home where cherished memories were made. Howard proudly served his country in the United States Army as a Military Police officer. After his service, he dedicated many years to his profession as a Machine Operator at Swan - The Watering Company, formerly Colorite, in Waco. He also worked at General Tire and Rubber Company. As a member of West Brethren Church, Howard fostered a sense of community and togetherness that extended to all aspects of his life. He found joy in the great outdoors, with hunting and fishing providing him not just recreation but moments of reflection and peace. Additionally, he had a passion for archery practices and enjoyed memorable cruises. Above all, Howard's heart belonged to his family. He supported his son's coaching of softball and football and was an ardent supporter of his grandchildren, attending every sporting event and celebrating their achievements alongside them.

Howard is preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Jimmy Sommerfeld and John Ramsey; sister, Cynthia Fenstad; and step-father, Almot "Fritz" Sommerfeld.

Survivors include his beloved wife of 51 years, Betty Sommerfeld of Lacy-Lakeview; his son, Christopher Sommerfeld and wife Tiffany of Moody; grandchildren, Brooke Cumbo and husband Kevin, Carlie Geiswite, Owen Sommerfeld and wife Bella, Grayson Sommerfeld, and Josephine Sommerfeld; great-grandchildren, Brayden, Emma, Zoey, Aubrey, and August; sister, Ellen Shields; brothers-in-law, Anthony Girard, Billy Girard and his fiance Karin Hutchinson, and Charlie Girard; sisters-in-law, Susan Ramsey and Janie Niemeyer; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Active pallbearers are Randy Niemeyer, Grayson Sommerfeld, Owen Sommerfeld, Brian Goodnight, Jason Warford, Josephine Sommerfeld, Jimmy Girard, and Stephen Dupree. Honorary pallbearers are his grandchildren and the West Brotherhood.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to help with his funeral expenses.