Jean Caroline (Sommermeyer) Chisholm, age 98, of Valley, NE passed away on Monday, April 18, 2022 surrounded by family who loved her dearly. Jean was born March 26, 1924 in Scribner, NE to Henry and Eva Sommermeyer. She was the youngest of nine children and often shared fond memories of her upbringing with the family. She graduated from Scribner High School and continued her education at Midland University. There, she received her degree in education followed by her Master's in Education. She loved teaching and followed the example of three of her sisters, in doing so. She had a passion for early education and taught elementary students in Fremont, Nickerson, District 1, and Diers Country School.
Jean lived in New York state for one year and decided that Nebraska really was the good life. She returned home where she met and fell in love with Paul LeRoy Chisholm. They were happily married for 48 years and together raised six children. Looking for a little more "elbow room" as Paul would say, the family moved a few miles north of Fremont, where they enjoyed a wonderful life in the country and together ran Paul's Hallmark bookstore.
Besides enjoying her large family and friends, she was an active member in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, teaching classes, helping in community volunteer services and playing the piano at church on Sundays. Working with the literacy program and tutoring adults was something Jean found fulfilling after retiring from teaching. Jean was a lover of people, conversation, playing cards, gardening, bird watching, cooking (especially eating desserts), genealogy, swimming, yoga, reading, walking her dog, music, and traveling. Most of all she loved to call or FaceTime her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren, on a daily basis. She was a devoted mother and wife who always had a ready smile and a perfect hug when needed. Her helpful hands, kind heart, and wise words will be forever missed by those fortunate enough to know her. Her warm, generous, and caring spirit will always shine in our hearts.
Jean is survived by, daughter Claire (Chuck) Gamerl Andersen, daughter-in-law Carol Chisholm, son Richard (Margaret) Chisholm, son Roger (Mary) Chisholm, daughter-in-law Diane (Kenny) Rogers, daughter Carole (Tim) Allemang, and daughter Cristin (Jessup) Wilson. She was blessed with many nieces, nephews, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, siblings, husband, son Robert Chisholm and son- in-law David Gamerl.
A celebration of life will be held on Monday, June 27, 2022, at 11:00 a.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.
In lieu of floral remembrances, the family asks for donations to your choice of the Food Bank, St. James Episcopal Church Food Pantry or Fremont Area Community Foundation.