Rachel Ruth Gittleman Sommers (Rookie)
Monday, February 2 at 12:00 PM
Funeral arrangements entrusted to Benjamin's Park Memorial Chapel
Monday, February 2 to Tuesday, February 3
7601 Bathurst Street,Thornhill, Ontario,L4J 4H5
P1 Common Room - Shiva following the interment, beginning at 3:30 to 5:30 p.m., and from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m., and Tuesday from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. Evening services at 7:30 p.m. Shiva will concluded Tuesday evening, on February 3rd.
13th of Sh'vat, 5786
Humber River Hospital Foundation, 416-242-1000, www.hrhfoundation.ca
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Rachel Ruth Gittleman Sommers on January 30, 2026, in her 90th year, surrounded by her loving family.
Devoted daughter of the late Ben and Claire Gittleman. Beloved wife of the late Fred Sommers. Cherished and incredible mother and mother-in-law of Karen Gurevich, Reesa and Carlos Soto, and bonus daughter Tina Friedman. She was an adored Bubby of Brooke and Robbie Tkatch, Shane Soto and his fiancé Lindsay Drakos, each of whom brought her immense pride and joy. She was also known as Bubby Bubby to her much loved great-granddaughters Jordyn Rose and Halle Rae Tkatch. She was a loving sister and sister-in-law of the late Billy and Sheila Gittleman, and to Gwen (and best friend) and Sydney Salpeter. A treasured aunt of Joel and Rita Gittleman, Ronnie Gittleman, Eric Salpeter, and Andrea and Scott Thomas, and a proud great-aunt of Ashley, Ryan, Zoey, and Bailee. She was also a wonderful cousin and a dear, loyal friend to many.
Rookie was the true matriarch and heart of her family. She was a constant source of strength, love, and wisdom. She was a trusted friend and confidant, always ready to listen, to comfort, and to give. Kind, caring, deeply empathetic, and extraordinarily generous, she touched countless lives in ways both big and small.
She will be forever missed, forever loved, and forever held in our hearts. I love you more. Heartfelt thanks to the incredible staff at Forestview Retirement Residence, where she spent the last three years of her life.
Deepest gratitude to the extraordinary team on 13 East at Humber River Hospital, for their unwavering support and compassion and to Dr. Laura Goode for her kindness and exceptional care.
Memorial donations may be made to Humber River Hospital Foundation, 416-242-1000, www.hrhfoundation.ca