IN LOVING MEMORY OF

Gilbert Treacy

Gilbert Treacy Sommer Profile Photo

Sommer

September 11, 1931 – June 12, 2024

Obituary

Gilbert Treacy Sommer, a cherished former resident of Ardmore, passed away peacefully at the age of 92 on June 12, 2024, at Sunrise of Paoli retirement home.

Treacy, as he was affectionately known, led a life rich with connections and laughter. His quick wit and mastery of impromptu jokes, riddles, and sayings were legendary, reflecting his extraordinary ability to engage genuinely with everyone he met.

Born on September 11, 1931, in Germantown, PA, Treacy attended St. Joseph's Preparatory School, Germantown Academy, and the Wharton School of Business at the University of Pennsylvania. He served honorably in the US Army during the Korean War, later continuing his service as a Military Police officer in Japan.

Treacy's professional journey began in the mid-Atlantic textile industry, where he dedicated over 50 years. Starting with his father's business, Wakefield Knitting Mills, he later worked at Somerset Knitting Mills before joining Middendorf Enterprises. He eventually acquired and operated the company with partners in Philadelphia and Norristown, PA. Following his textile career, Treacy embraced a new role in marketing memorial planning services at West Laurel Hill Cemetery in the early '90s.

Treacy's deep love for people and his unwavering positive attitude were constants in his life. A devoted husband, father, father-in-law, grandfather, and great-grandfather, he carried himself with grace and never complained.

Treacy was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Diane Augustine Dagit, with whom he shared 58 incredible years. Together, they raised five children, ran their business, and actively volunteered in their children's schools. Treacy was known for never missing an opportunity to engage in golf, tennis, bridge and most importantly social events.

He is survived by his five children: G. Treacy, Jr. (Kelly), Josephine Sommer, Leonide DelGatto (Lawrence), Dandurand S. Conway (Michael), and Sean H. (Maria); eleven grandchildren: Kalin Smoot (Kevin), Jennifer Sommer (Grant), Saoirse Wong, Andrew & Mathias Wenzel, Alexis & Adeline DelGatto, Emerson & Lucas Conway, and Stella & Matteo Sommer; and two great-grandchildren: Lily & McKinley Smoot. Treacy is also survived by his sister, Karen Brine, and was predeceased by his siblings Joan Mateer, Frank Sommer, and Mary Beth Sommer.

Treacy was an active member of several organizations, including Men of Malvern (receiving his 50-year pin in 2023), Germantown Cricket Club, Merion Cricket Club, Glenhardie Country Club, Catholic Charities, and St. Isaac Jogues parish. He also dedicated his time to Meals on Wheels during his retirement.

Relatives and friends are invited on Wednesday June 19th, Viewing from 9 to 10 AM with Funeral Mass at 10:00 AM all at St. Norbert Church, 50 Leopard Rd., Paoli, PA 19301. Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Malvern Retreat House.

Treacy's life was a testament to the power of love, laughter, and community. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew him.

To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Gilbert Treacy Sommer, please visit our flower store.

Funeral Services

Viewing

June
19

9:00 - 10:00 am

Funeral Mass

June
19

Starts at 10:00 am

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