William Dean Summers

Bill Summers, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully on September 5th, 2025. He was born on May 20, 1943, in Monett, Missouri to Gail and Georgia Summers.

Bill graduated from St. Agnes High School in 1961. Following in his father's footsteps, he began his career as an Electrician for Frisco Railway, embracing a lifelong passion for trains.

On October 3, 1964, Bill married the love of his life, Julie Summers, at St. Joseph Church in Springfield, Missouri. Their marriage was filled with fun adventures, so much so that their grandchildren referred to them as "Barbie and Ken" when they cruised around town in their convertible. His most important focus in life was his love for family. He enjoyed weekend road trips with Julie and the kids, traveling internationally, and booking cruises.

In 1967, Bill began working at 3M company, where he worked as a Maintenance Electrician and steadily worked his way up to Plant Supervisor. He dedicated 33 and a half years to 3M before retiring at the age of 57.

His hands-on skills were not limited to his professional life; Bill also utilized them at home, a prime example being the two-story playhouse he built for his children, complete with electricity and an intercom system.

A devoted man of faith and community, Bill was an active 4th-degree member of the Knights of Columbus, serving as Treasurer in Springfield, Missouri, for a period. He was also a faithful member of Holy Trinity Catholic Church and volunteered for both the boy and girl scouts when his children were young.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Gail and Georgia Summers; his brother, Gail Eugene "Gene" Summers; and his loving spouse of 59 years, Julie, who was always at his side.

He is survived by his three children and their spouses: Angel Pruett (Tim Pruett), Shawn Summers (Angie Summers), and Tobi Grady. Bill also leaves behind his grandchildren: Emma Pruett (Nathan McFarland), Erica Lindsey (Drew Lindsey), Molly Pruett (Abe Jaimes), Teague Summers, Brody Summers, Tori Freeman, and Chase Grady. He found extreme delight in his great-grandchildren: Beatrix Lindsey, Margaux Lindsey, and Phoebe McFarland. He was eagerly awaiting the birth of his first great-grandson in December. He also leaves behind 17 nieces and nephews.

Bill will be remembered for his technical abilities and eagerness to help, playful sense of humor, and unwavering passion for family.

A visitation will begin at 9:30am at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Springfield, Missouri on Monday, September 8, 2025. A funeral mass will be held at 10:30am. The burial will follow at Resurrection Cemetery.

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