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CAROLE JOYCE SOMMERFELD

Carole Joyce (Neumann) Sommerfeld, 85, died on Sunday, Oct. 14, 2018.

Carole was born in Alpena on Dec. 23, 1932 to the late Martin and Katharine (Kunzi) Neumann. She lived her life exhibiting a true love of her Lutheran faith. Carole graduated from Alpena High School in 1950. She married Donald K. Sommerfeld on June 29, 1952 at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Alpena. He preceded her in death on Nov. 28, 1985. Carole now joins her husband and parents who she cherished throughout her lifetime. She entered the church triumphant where she awaits the resurrection of us all.

Carole was employed at Besser Company and then Alpena Wholesale Grocery Company for many years. She then worked at the court house in the Register of Deeds office serving as First Deputy. In 1972, she decided to run for the position of Register of Deeds and was elected as the first woman to hold the title. She won five more consecutive terms, holding the position from 1972-1992, at which time she retired from public office.

Carole was a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church. Through the years she was in different women’s groups and served on the finance committee. She was also a member of the first Red Hat group that was formed in Alpena. Carole was a member of the “Just Cuz” group of cousins that met on weekends. She was also a member of “The Widow’s Group.” She spent many enjoyable hours at the Sage Hunting Club on Doctors Club Road. Carole enjoyed deer hunting, traveling, playing cards, reading, and spending time with family and friends. She was known for her sense of humor.

Surviving are her sons, Marty (Lori) Sommerfeld of Cogan Station, Pa., Gerald (Charlene) Sommerfeld of Alpena, Douglas Sommerfeld of Georgia; grandchildren, Anna (Chris) Brocco, Kate, Donald, Keith, Melissa and Jason Sommerfeld, Melanie (Tom) Underwood; six great-grandchildren; sister, Janice (Ken) Melville; sisters-in-law; brothers-in-law; many nieces and nephews; and special friends, Peggy and Ray Krentz.

Visitation will take place on Wednesday at Bannan Funeral Home from 2-8 p.m. and continue Thursday at 10 a.m. at Immanuel Lutheran Church until the funeral service at 11 a.m. with Rev. James Erickson officiating.

Interment: Evergreen Cemetery

Memorials: Immanuel Lutheran Church and Friends Together