John Laddie Somer, a beacon of knowledge and human connection, passed away peacefully of natural causes on April 23, 2024, at the age of 87 in his sleep, at home, in Chicago, Illinois.

Born on October 16, 1936, in Wellington, Kansas.

He received his bache lor’s degree from Benedictine College in Atchison, Kansas, a master’s degree from Kansas State Teachers College in Emporia, Kansas where he met his wife Connie, and a PhD from Northern Illinois University in Dekalb, Illinois. John spent much of his adult and professional life in Emporia where he lovingly raised his three children and became a Professor Emeritus at Emporia State University. His journey through life was marked by an unwavering dedication to education, literature, and the profound joy of learning and storytelling. He is preceded in death by his beloved wife of 51 years, Constance “Connie” Louise (Sawyer) Somer, his son, John Joseph Somer, his parents, John L. Somer and Hannora (Garrity) Somer, and his sister, Mary Frances (Somer) Catlin. John’s memory will be carried on by his daughters, Anne Somer Nelson and Joan Somer Sharp, and his beloved grandchildren, Ross and Shea Nelson, Hannora “Nonie” and Annie Sharp. All of whom will continue to tell his story and honor his spirit of curiosity and connection. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in memory of John on Monday, May 13th, at 10:00 a.m., at St. Gertrude Catholic Church, 1420 W Granville Ave, Chicago, IL 60660. The interment will be held at Maplewood Memorial Lawn Cemetery, Emporia, Kansas.

Please visit HabenFuneral.com for date, updates and additional information