Thomas C. Summers, 91, passed away on February 29, 2024 in Wichita, KS.

Born on March 21, 1932, in Rayville, MO to Ernest C. and Ruth E. Summers.

They moved to Salina when he was 3 years old. He was the oldest among 7 children. Two of his sisters (Dorothy and Edith) died during childhood. Two of his siblings (Doris and Bob) preceded him in death. His two other siblings are Larry and David.

He was preceded in death by his wife Norma in 2019. They were married for 63 years. They have three children, Ron Summers,(Olathe, KS)  Karen Keller (Wichita, KS), and Diane Ellyson (Salina, KS).

He was blessed with 15 grandchildren and 32 great-grandchildren and loved them all dearly.

Tom and Norma were long-time residents of Salina, KS and members of Trinity Lutheran church.  He served in the Navy until 1954. Upon returning to Salina in 1954, he enrolled in Brown Mackie College. In 1962, he started Summers Vending Co. including an amusement arcade in downtown Salina with pinball machines and pool tables. In 1972, the vending company was sold and he became a distributor for Malco, selling automotive chemicals throughout north-central Kansas.  He worked for Parts Associates, Inc. for 7 years before his retirement.

Tom loved old time Western TV shows such as Gunsmoke and Rifleman.  He also loved old time Western movies.  He was also a fan of old time TV detective shows such as Perry Mason, Kojak, Cannon, and Mannix.

Tom was a true servant of God and was a person who gave to all but never asked for things. He had the biggest heart and helped out family and friends.  He was outgoing and never met a stranger.

Cremation has taken place and there will be no visitation. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the Beauties and Beasts Rescue Shelter, Wichita, KS.  Cards may be sent ℅ Karen Keller, 1417 S. Fivewood St., Wichita, KS 67235.

Celebration of Life Service will be held on March 16, 2024, 2 pm at the Catholic Care Center (Chapel) - 6700 E 45th St N Bel Aire, KS 67226