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Carmen Sommers Townsend, age 89, passed away at her home with the sounds of the ocean in the background on Friday, March 27, 2020, under VNA Hospice Care, with her family by her side. Maria del Carmen Sommers was born in Santiago, Chile on April 10, 1930. Carmen was always lively, known to her childhood friends as “Terremoto” or “Earthquake”. Carmen worked at Braniff Airlines where she met F. Javier Esteve of Esteve Brothers and Co., now known as Econ Agrioindustrial Corp. She married, moved to Dallas, TX, and in due time became an American citizen. While rasing four daughters, Carmen volunteered at Ursuline Academy supporting the Montessori program, teaching Spanish and playing the guitar. Carmen was a champion figure skater, avid water skier, and a passionate tennis player.
Twenty years ago, Carmen and her husband, Dwight Townsend, moved to Vero Beach, FL. Carmen jumped in to the local tennis scene playing at the Riomar Club, Indian Trails and Grand Harbor. She was a fierce competitor and known for her “fight” on the tennis courts. When she was forced to leave tennis due to hip replacements, Carmen discovered bridge. Vero’s Bridge Center was a welcoming new adventure where she found a wonderful community of friends.
We will remember Carmen’s enthusiasm, generosity, and graciousness. She was truly an elegant lady known for her sense of style. Her fun character was very infectious to all who came into contact with her. Carmen was always ready with ideas of how to celebrate life with a party.
Carmen is survived by her sister, Luz Maria Germain, formally of Sebastian, and her four daughters: Maria Carolina Rozas of Sedona, AZ; Pilar Turner (Al) of Vero Beach, FL; Carmencita Esteve of Austin, TX; and Maria Poradek (Patrick) of Abilene, TX. She was known as “Abuelita” to her eleven grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren with another due any day. Her ten nieces and nephews knew her as “Mama Carmen”.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Indian River Community Foundation, PO Box 643968, Vero Beach, FL 32964.
© 2024 Lowther Funeral Home. All Rights Reserved.
Migdalia OLeary - Friend
March 31, 2020, 11:07 pm
For me, Carmen was a beacon of light at the Vero Beach Bridge Center. I always looked forward to seeing her smiling face and twinkle in her eyes. She will be missed by many. Sarita, Beatriz and I frequently enjoyed a few minutes of ‘Latina Time’ ( as she used to call it) before the start of the afternoon bridge game. With Love, Migdalia O’Leary
Maria Luisa Estes - cousin
April 1, 2020, 9:57 am
Words are never adequate in moments like these. We will say, though, that our hearts go out to you, and we will always remember the joyous memories that we are privileged to have in knowing your Mama Carmen. She was dear to all of us. We have such fond memories of her adventurous and fun spirit and caring heart towards all of us. She taught us to strive to be more with her amazing personality. We will miss her. Thank you for sharing her with us. She’s been a blessing in all our lives.
“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Psalm 34:18
May God’s peace be with you.
The Germain and Extended Families
Pat and Bill Burrows - friend
April 1, 2020, 1:50 pm
What can one say about such a wonderful lady. My fondest memory was Carmen’s teaching us to dance during one of our Cinco de Mayo parties…No one could pull off those moves like our Carmen. We, already, miss you…what a loss for each of us. Her classy style will never be outdone…know you will never be forgotten! Dance in Peace wonderful Lady!!! Pat and Bill Burrows
Kristy Murphy - Friend
April 1, 2020, 4:34 pm
Carmen was such a beautiful lady inside and out and I will miss her spirit. I am so glad she passed away at home listening to the ocean and being comforted by her loving daughters. So blessed to have known you. Kristy and Mike Murphy
Teddy Niedzwiecki - Friend& neighbor
April 1, 2020, 5:08 pm
Carmen was a marvelous person who always had a beautiful smile on her face while watching the ocean sunrise and the full moon at night which left a magnificent glow on the ocean which put a smile on our faces as we watched it rise those times will be missed together your very best friend and really good friend forever and ever Teddy
Patricia Blais - Amiga
April 2, 2020, 2:24 pm
Goodbye my Carmensita loved you from the moment I met you. Patricia
Ann Wheeler - Friend
April 2, 2020, 5:20 pm
We have lost a dear friend who always showed us nothing but love and thoughtfulness. Carmen we will miss you my dear, who else will ever forgive my terrible bridge. Love Ann and Bill
Catherine Walker - Friend
April 2, 2020, 5:25 pm
This has been such a sad time. Carmen was the most beautiful person inside and out. Carmen’s friendship and generosity touched so many. Her cadre of friends will miss Carmen’s style and grace so very much. My deepest and heartfelt sympathy for the loss of a woman who was an example for us all. Cathy W.
Ralph A. Maffei - friends
April 4, 2020, 5:27 pm
We will miss you,Carmen. You were a joy to know !! Bobbi and Ralph Maffei
Jack Hughes - Friend
April 6, 2020, 1:16 pm
She walked as an Empress among us,generous and kind. A smile for all and for each , we were made to feel special, important, wanted. My dear, Miss. Carmen we shall miss you.
Julie Tyler - Step niece
April 11, 2020, 12:47 am
I am just now reading this obit after trying to reach Carmen for several days. Carmen was married to my uncle Dwight-the love of his life. Carmen was always very thoughtful, generous, clever and funny. She was a devoted wife, and created a lovely home in Vero Beach. She adored her family and was always hospitable and gracious. She will be missed and forever in my heart. Julie Tyler
Milli Wenzel - Friend and bridge partner
April 13, 2020, 12:37 pm
My dear CARMEN, my friend and bridge partner, will miss forever. Your passing leaves such a void in all who knew you especially me. You brought so much joy to my life and to all who were privileged enough to know you and be counted among one of your very, very many friends. All my love and prayers.