Max D. Sommerville Obituary - Visitation & Funeral Information

Max D. Sommerville 89, of Traverse City passed away peacefully at Munson Medical Center on July 21, 2022 with his daughter by his side. Max was born on February 7, 1933 in East Jordan to the late Leo and Dorothy (Dennis) Sommerville. Max served our country honorably as a member of the United States Army. On December 26, 1953, Max married the love of his life and best friend, Darlene L. Colley in Boyne City. Together they shared 66 years before her passing in 2019. They raised their family in the Plymouth area where he was a teacher for 36 years. He was a beloved softball coach, referee, and an umpire, Max was in charge of the Little League program, as well as the 6th grade camp program in Plymouth. They retired to their home on Duck Lake where they loved to fish. Max had a love for the outdoors, bird watching, hunting, kayaking, and biking. What brought him the most joy was his family. He loved cheering on his four grandchildren in all of their special events and athletics. He traveled near and far to support them. He was very proud of his six great grandchildren; and felt so blessed to be able to watch them learn and grow. He made trips to many fields, and gyms to cheer them on! In his free time, Max enjoyed woodworking. His mission in life was spreading the word of God. His passion was making handheld prayer crosses. He handed out over 1300 crosses. These gifts have been shared all over the world. Mission accomplished! Max's faith and infectious smile are what people may remember when thinking of him. In Max's OWN words: "I was a simple person of faith in Jesus Christ and was filled with a warm devotion to my savior in truth, honor and humility. Max was just about God." Max was preceded in death by his wife Darlene, their son Scott; his brother Jack and sister Frances Murphy. Max is survived by his daughters Kristi (Gary) Hogeboom and Joni Sommerville; grandchildren Heidi (Kyle) Kleersnyder, Jake (Kelsey) Hogeboom, Kasi (Nadeem) Gebrael, Jami (Tay) Hogeboom-Lewis, Sherie, Tim, and Todd; great-grandchhildren Bria, Taya, Boden, Jordyn, Hobie, and Theo. Many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and very dear friends. Max will be laid to rest at Sunset Hill Cemetery at a later date. The family is planning a celebration of Life at Kensington Church in Traverse City on Saturday, October 15, 2022 , 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm. More information will follow as we are closer to date. Thank you to all who have reached out with love and prayers for our family! It has brought us much comfort❤️

Max D. Sommerville

February 7, 1933 - July 21, 2022