Bernard A. Sumner
Bernard “Bernie” Arthur Sumner, age 86 — a dedicated firefighter, husband, father and grandfather — died peacefully on Tuesday, February 4, 2020, in Charlotte. Bernie was born October 30, 1933, in Jackson, Mich. He attended Jackson High School, where he met Shirley Ann Walters, and the two married in 1951. They settled in Potterville, where they raised their three children. In 1953, Bernie enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served aboard the USS Mississippi. Upon his return, he joined the City of East Lansing Fire Dept. (ELFD), dedicating the next 32 ½ years to public safety. He retired from ELFD as captain in 1989 and then continued his career as a member of the Benton Township Fire Board for many years. Bernie was a member of the Lansing Moose Lodge #288, where he served as administrator, and shared a supper club with other members. He and Shirley enjoyed time spent hosting card parties and camping with family and friends. Bernie loved sports, especially the MSU Spartans, and was instrumental in starting the youth flag football leagues in Potterville Youth Athletics. Many will remember Bernie’s dedication to service and his love for his family.
Bernard is survived by his son, Michael (Aurora) Sumner of Charlotte; daughter, Jayne (Tim) Anderson of Charlotte; daughter-in-law, Christine Sumner; grandchildren, Jennifer (Ryon) Mott, Ryan Arias-Sumner, Kristopher Arias-Sumner, Brian Sumner II of Arizona, Amandajean (Brett) Line, Chelsey (Josh) Evans of Texas, Kyle (Shelby) Anderson and Kaitlyn Anderson; and 7 great-grandchildren, Arianna, Teighan, Easton, Cameron, Braxton, Grady and Emmett. He is predeceased by his wife of 64 years, Shirley Ann (Walters) Sumner in 2015; son, Brian Scott Sumner in 1998; and his brothers, Stan Sumner and Rex Sumner.
Friends are encouraged to support Bernard’s family. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, February 11, 2020, at St. Mary Catholic Church in Charlotte with Rev. Fr. Dwight Ezop officiating. Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m. on Monday, February 10, 2020, at Pray Funeral Home in Charlotte. Interment will take place in Maple Hill Cemetery in Charlotte. If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to the American Cancer Society. Friends and family are encouraged to share memories of Bernard on his tribute page at prayfuneral.com. The family is in the care of Pray Funeral Home, Charlotte.