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Les Joseph
May 5, 2020
I first met Coach Gummerson at the start of the 1971 track season at Maine East HS. Coach Gummerson worked with me on my 440 times. I improved much under his leadership. I credit his coaching for me taking a first at the 1971 district meet. He will be greatly missed!! Respectfully, Les Joseph
"Little Johnny" McHugh
May 7, 2019
Ron was my first Cross Country Coach, when I was just learning what competitive running was all about. He talked me through the aches and pains and somehow managed to make it fun. I still run to this day, just a lot slower. He was a wonderful caring man. God Bless.
September 28, 2012
Mr. Gummerson was the first teacher I met at Proviso West in 1968 when I took a Summer Typing class. He was also my Cross Country Coach. He had a great outlook and a lasting impact as an example of positive thinking and determination. Ron was unforgetable.
Larry Best PW, 1972
Jim "Pete" Peters
June 24, 2012
I'm so sorry & very saddened to learn of the passing of a really kind & generous person & my condolences to Coache's family. I remember he would give us track guys rides home late at night after the Roy Gummerson Cougar Track Classic at Conant. He packed 5 or 6 runners in his little Volkswagon station wagon along with a few of his own kids! He always helped me out whenever I needed it & shared himself with everyone. I miss him dearly.
Jim Macnider
December 27, 2011
Dear Gummerson Family,
I saw Brendan's facebook post and I wanted to share. Ron was the finest coach and man I have ever meet. He was fiercely loyal to his Cougar track teams but the first to congratulate or console his competitors. I use to love going to the MSL seeding meetings, especially when Ron voiced his opinion. If challenged he would reiterate the point he was making with his voice getting a bit louder a firmer until his voice would make a high pitched crack. We all would be biting our lips, Ron would be the first one to break out laughing, lightening the mood and then he would get his way. I think he could control the little adolescent voice crack. I learned a great deal about coaching from him. I'm sure he is coaching someone up in heaven.
December 24, 2011
Dear Sheila and family: I have been meaning to write, but did not know your address and never gave much thought to searching Facebook. I was surprised and saddened to read Ron's obituary in the Bradley Univ Hilltopics. One of the things in the back of my mind was to someday reunite (see) Rod Collins and Ron Gummerson. I was their teammate in the fall of 1965 and 1966 on the Bradley cross country team.
I recall Ron and I walking back to our fraternity houses on Fredonia and talking to one another. He was a Sigma Nu and I was a TEP. I mentioned that I ran cross country and track in high school and he encouraged me to come-out for the cross country team next school year.
I followed-up on his request. I recall that Collins was the best, Evans was second best, and Ron was in the #3, #4 or #5 position depending which year it was. The best I ever did was 4th and usually was the 6th or 7th man on the 7 man team. I did develop a friendship with both Rod Collins and Ron. Outside of sports, we went our different ways, but I hold dearly the advice he gave me and the experiences we shared while in college and on the team. He was a good guy to be around. If my memory is correct, he grew up on a farm and talked about the fun times he had in a rural environment.
He left an impression on me and it sounds like he helped many young people during his adult life. I am so sorry for you and your family that his life was cut short. I know the pain still exists. Here's to sunnier days and times for you in the near future.
--Loren Eisner, Macedonia, Ohio 44056
Scott Doyle
September 16, 2011
My sympathies to the Gummerson family. I only recently became aware of his passing. He was my coach when I transferred into Maine East in '72. While he made me a better runner he also made me a better man. He led by example and made a difference in my life.
Shelley Conant class of '91
June 15, 2011
My deepest sympathies to the Gummerson family and friends. I had the Coach as a teacher for one class at Conant (in 1990?) and his words and demeanor have not left my memory. He was a warm and inspiring person. I still recall my favorite of his phrases "gold medals don't come in wheaties boxes." You really do have to work for your accomplishments. And he did just that.
Gail Bernard
May 30, 2011
My deepest sympathy goes out to your entire family. I knew Ron throughout my career in 211. However, I came to know and respect him even more after working for him as a traveling teacher one year. His influence and caring was evident in every aspect of his life. Ron was an inspiration to so many and will deeply be missed by all of us.
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May 27, 2011
God's Belssings from our family to yours. I was part of Ron's early teaching career at Conant, and still feel a strong bond with the Cougars. even though I became a Palatine Pirate for many years. We are so sorry that Ron is gone but know that his life has left so many positive imprints on many hearts. God's plan is sometimes difficult to understand and we hope the angels will comfort you and your family.
Dianne, John and Mindy Welda
Tom Brown
May 24, 2011
As one of Ron’s neighbors, I am going to miss the times we talked across the fence about our families, politics, the weather and whatever else came up. It didn’t take long in talking to Ron to realize there was something very special about him. Perhaps it was his kindness and warmth, or perhaps his humor or his gentle ways. In reading all the testimonies from other people, I believe one can see just how special Ron really was. Everyone he touched recognized this man was very special. I believe greatness in a human being can’t be defined by a person’s fame or fortune or status. Rather, it is defined by how a person is loved, admired and respected. It is further defined by how many lives were enriched by just knowing him. Ron’s true legacy is found in all the lives he has touched in both simple and profound ways. It is his legacy of greatness that will remain along with the love people have for him. I believe he leaves us an example how we all should live. Nothing can be greater than that.
You will be missed Ron but not forgotten. Our prayers and condolences go out to the entire Gummerson Family.
Anthony Laramie
May 23, 2011
Coach Gummerson was like a Dad to me. A week before Mr. Gummerson had passed, I found myself repeating what he would always say about not letting outside circumstances that are beyond your control dictate the outcome of your situation. I had mentioned these wise words to my eleven year old son. I told him the importance of knowing that things will not always be perfect, and that he will miss great opportunities if he doesn't make the best out of all situations. Thanks to Mr. Gummerson this was a good life lesson opportunity.
My thoughts and prayers are with the entire Gummerson family.
Frank Newell
May 21, 2011
Being on the Conant track team for the 1998 and 1999 seasons was one of the best experiences of my life, and Coach Gummerson's positive presence will always be with me. Just the other day, as I was getting distracted and annoyed by external circumstances, I heard Coach Gummerson say “Adjust,” a word he often used as a reminder to not allow outer conditions and apparent setbacks to dictate one’s attitude; recalling this advice and hearing his voice echoing in my mind gave me comfort and motivation to take appropriate action where possible and to accept what I was unable to change. I still ponder and draw strength from the wisdom of Coach Gummerson’s signature maxims like “What I accept, I am” and “Pressure makes a diamond” as these messages contain truths which apply both on the track and beyond, and I will forever be inspired by Coach Gummerson himself and the way he acted: his unique blend of fiery enthusiasm and kindness, warmth, and humor serve as an example of how to live and how to treat others. My sincerest condolences to the Gummerson family.
Bob Panczak
May 17, 2011
To The Entire Gummerson Family,
We are so sorry for your loss. Our prayers and thoughts are with all of you at this very difficult time. Ron was a wonderful and caring man. He will be truly missed. If there is anything we can do for you, please let us know. We just know he's with the Lord and looking down on you and is in peace and not with any pain or sickness. With Our
Deepest Sympathy. The Panczak Family, Bob, Kathy, and Meghan
Jim Wertz
May 17, 2011
I know that Ron is surely in his eternal life with God and already has plans for an individual track meet of some sorts. I will so miss him, but look forward to running the eight mile (why not) for him in my eternal life. For those who knew Ron, and those who didn't, honor this man by modeling yourself after his life. No matter your age or gender, look at yourself and say what must I do to be more like Ron Gummerson. I sure am and I know I will be a better person for making the change. Adopt Ron's attitude, spirit , humor, affection, and style. If he had a bad moment I never saw it and I was his tech guy and had to tell him his classroom computers weren't working four minutes before class started.
Kelly Mace
May 16, 2011
They say that there is always one teacher who leaves a lasting impact on your life and that teacher, for me, was Mr. Gummerson. He came to the classroom, each day, in a good mood and made his students WANT to learn. He treated the students with warmth and respect and was liked by all at CHS. Business Law soon became my favorite class, and it is because of him that I chose to become a Paralegal. Just about everyday, in class, Mr. Gummerson would say to me "Did I ever tell you that I have a daughter named Kelly?" Of course, this elicited laughter from the classroom. I will never forget him.
My condolences to the Gummerson family. While this is a very difficult time for you and all who knew Mr. Gummerson, please take comfort in knowing just how many lives Mr. Gummerson touched and impacted.
Katie Bittner
May 16, 2011
I never had the opportunity to meet Ron Gummerson but after reading all the tributes and good things everyone has said about him I know where Molly got all of her wonderful qualities from ! My thoughts and prayers go out to your entire family during this sad and difficult time. It seems as if you have a true angel watching over you now.
Jerry Kleeman
May 16, 2011
My thoughts are with the Gummerson family during this difficult time. While we can't take your pain away, I hope you are comforted just a bit by seeing and hearing the impact Coach made on so many of our lives.
There is no doubt that Coach was, next to my father, the most influential man in my life. As a teacher, role model, coach mentor, and guide, he showed me how to become a man when
I had no idea. He knew when you needed encouragement, when you needed guidance, and when you needed a rather challenging conversation. in all situations you knew he was on your side.
I would have not taken up the profession I have without his encouragement. Thirty five years later I still ensure leaders learn the lessons he taught me in a class and on a track. I know I speak for hundreds of his former athletes and students who are grateful for having known Coach Gummerson. Your race is over Coach........there is no doubt you won!
John & Kathy Dolezal
May 15, 2011
Our sincere condolences to all the Gummersons. Ron was an inspiration as department chairman of the business education department and as our son's track coach at Conant High School.
The Shea family and The Gummersons
Margaret Stambaugh/Shea
May 15, 2011
Meeting their great-great nephew for the first time. Troy Shidler. August 2008.
Margaret Stambaugh/Shea
May 15, 2011
May 15, 2011
We wish to extend our sincere condolences to the Gummerson family. We were fortunate to have Ron as a High School friend and teammate.
Barney & Nancy Peterson Darien, Il.
Joe Grall
May 15, 2011
My deepest condolences to Coach Gummerson's family. He was, and always will, be a special person in my life. It was through him I learned that I can be the best at whatever I do in life. Thinking back now, the Coach was preparing us for life long after track ended (all done in his own gentle and caring way). He was a special man and I'll never forget him.
Joseph Tortorici
May 15, 2011
Walking into the room to see Coach Gummerson's face for the last time I didn't know what I would feel. The flood of emotions that overwhelmed me were too tough to hold back. The thought of losing such a great man makes you reflect on the experiences and lessons that were shared.
The memories were never more clear than when looking back on the mile relay. Refered to as a "Religious Experience" this race could show Coach everything he needed to know about a runner. It was the challenges that he laid in front of his runners that helped us to grow as athletes and men.
I only wish that there was more that I could have learned from Coach Gummerson, and I send my best wishes to the Gummerson Family.
Pam Mulcrone Tichy
May 15, 2011
To the Gummerson Children,
I am so sorry to hear about the loss of such a wonderful man and father. I am so shocked, because I didn't know he was ill. I didn't know you directly, even as a fellow SHS graduate, but I knew your mom and dad. I send my deepest sympathies. Though I didn't have classes with any of you, we shared the parallel path of growing up in Schaumburg, while our dads were popular teachers at Conant. I heard about you often all these years. I had the privilege of working with Mr. Gummerson briefly when I subbed after graduate school over 15 years ago. He was so kind and helpful to me as I tried teaching for the first time. I still have to say Mr., because I've looked up to him, as he was a very good friend of my dad's all these years. Then, your mom and dad were both at my wedding, and I remember they had two weddings to attend that day. They came to ours, left to get to the second one, then came back to ours later, to hang out with my dad and the other Conant teachers. We were all so touched your parents went to that trouble. When my own mother passed away from cancer seven years ago, your parents were both there to comfort my dad, my brother, and me. Since then, I have heard the name Gummerson so often, as the Conant retirees would get together often. Mr. Gummerson was such a big part of my dad's life, especially these last few years. My dad had been planning to see your dad last Friday, in fact. The parallel my brother and I share now with you is heartbreaking- losing a parent in May, very unexpectedly and much too soon, because of cancer. I send all of you and your mother my condolences and prayers. Your father will be deeply missed by many people. I hope you find comfort in the coming days knowing you are not alone in your grief, and that there are many people you can rely upon to help you now.
mary gummerson
May 15, 2011
Ronnie and Uncle Roy will forever be in my heart. They twinkled. They loved. They made an impact on the lives of everyone they touched. I know that their legacy will go on through the wonderful children and grandchildren who will go into the world teaching what they have been taught by them. Sheila, you have been loved and cherished by them all. I pray that you will be comforted and strengthened by the love that Ronnie has left for you. Mary M. Gummerson
Gary J Gray
May 15, 2011
My memories of Ron range from the time I was a student at PW (where Ron taught and coached) to seeing him at alumni and cross country meets. He was always friendly, positive, and encouraging. What great qualities for a dad and a coach! We are saddened by your loss; you are in our prayers.
May 15, 2011
Sheila and Family
We are so very sorry to learn about Ron's untimely passing. He was such a terrific person. We loved the way he told stories about the family - one of them being the fateful grocery shopping trip when he left the baby in the cart. He excelled in so many roles, chiefly as a kind, decent, and generous -hearted person who will be sorely missed.
Jason Ambroson
May 15, 2011
I was deeply sadden to hear of Coach Gummerson's passing. It has been 15+ years since I have spoken to him, but rarely does a week passes when I don't think about something that I learned from him (in the classroom, on the track, or in the hallway). He had a wonderful outlook on life and inspired countless others to strive to be the best that they can be while always enjoying the experiences along the way. I will always remember him fondly as I draw on the lessons learned to maximize my journey just as he did. My deepest condolences.
Anthony Martini
May 15, 2011
There is always a teacher and coach that has an impact on your life. Mr. Gummerson was one of those special people. our Thoughts and prayers are with his family.(Conant 1980)
Rich Bohn
May 14, 2011
To Sheila and all of your great kids, I just got this news and it hit me hard. Ron was a special friend to me for more than 40 years and I miss him a lot already. I am still sorry I did not get to go to your wedding! You are in my prayers.
John Barmen
May 14, 2011
As neighbors, Ron has been just that; neighborly in it's greatest sense. I count myself blessed to have enjoyed his company, meeting were our yards meet, while busily going about our gardening tasks during the weekends (yet taking the time to stop and talk), or in the evenings while relaxing and just enjoying life.
He took pride in what he did, was involved in what he believed to be important, passionate about teaching and learning, and he loved his family dearly. Usually a very practical man, there was a touch a whimsy about him that made him quite endearing. I remember asking him why he put in a small fish pond in his back yard, to which he innocently replied; "Because I wanted to."
He has always been a patient sounding board, a thoughtful mentor, and solid role model. Shining through the years, to me he has simply been a true friend. He will be sorely missed.
John F. Barmen.
Paulette Keegan
May 14, 2011
To the Gummerson family:
I was so saddened to hear of Ron's passing. I worked with him at Conant H.S. and saw him frequently when he would come up to the Adm. Building for meetings. Ron was always smiling, had a warmth and compassion that was second to none. My heartfelt sympathies to each of you.
Steve Pokin
May 14, 2011
Ron coached and taught at Proviso West High School, his alma mater, while I was a student and runner there. He was a remarkably kind and inspiring man and as a result there are countless people like me who know that great strength, the kind that can change the course of a life, comes in the form of a gentle, loving spirit.
Condolences.
Johnny McHugh
May 14, 2011
Ron was a great coach, like his father, because they were teachers of sport and sportsmanship, they developed good character besides teams.
"Little Johnny" McHugh Proviso West '73
May 14, 2011
To all the Gummersons,
Having taught at Conant and SHS, I was fortunate to know all of you. Actually Roy was my teacher in high school. Ron and I enjoyed stories about him. Having taught all the children except for little Sheila was a real pleasure. Ron did not want me to retire until I could have taught Sheila.
You all have eachother to always remember the good life with Ron. He was the best. Donna Nevius
Jeff Teach
May 14, 2011
To Sheila and the whole Gummerson family, Sue and I were so saddened to hear this news. Your family has always had a special place in our heart. Ron was such a special guy. I loved coaching with him at Maine East and then against him when I was at Palatine H.S. We'll never forget the "Cork & Fork" dinners! What great memories. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers. Jeff & Sue Teach, Palm City, Florida.
May 14, 2011
My sincere condolences to the Gummerson Family. It was my pleasure to teach a few of the Gummerson kids at Blackwell School and get to know their wonderful family.They are a reflection of a wise, kind, and loving father. My heart goes out to you.
Carlotta Lencioni
Dave Brooks
May 14, 2011
My thoughts are with the Gummerson family at this very difficult time. I was privileged to get to know Ron through his father Mr. Roy Gummerson, my coach and such a role model to me. Ron was passed on those traits which is the highest compliment anyone can receive. You always felt comfortable around Ron who was very humble but who had such an affect on so many. Always a great listener and carrying individual. A book to read that has helped me through these times is "Heaven is for Real by Todd Burpo". Such a pleasure for me to have as a friend.
Marco Mota
May 14, 2011
Wow Where doe someone Start at a Time Like This...Cougar Track Classic,Busse Woods,Oak Park-River Forest Invite,Sprint Work in The Halls of Conant,Stayover In Peoria for a Cross Country Meet,Outdoor Track and Field Practices.These are Some of The Fondest Memories of which i Shall Always Cherish of a Great Coach,Person and Man.One of Our Own,Coach Ron Gummerson.Thanx Coach for Being a Tremendous Human Being To Me and my Family(Brother Jorge and Parents) My Condolences Go out to the Gummerson Family,Friends and Relatives...
Nadia Geller
May 13, 2011
Thank you Mr. Gummerson for being a calm and generous voice of encouragement and support to all those you knew. You will be missed.
My heart and prayers goes out to the Gummerson Family.
Alejandra & Ron Kleiber
May 13, 2011
Please accept our deepest sympathies. We always enjoyed joking with Ron at Churh or at SHS.
May 13, 2011
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Gummerson family. Ron was a teammate on the Proviso West track team. He was a year ahead of me but I always remember he treated me well and his father was a great man who cheered for all PW runners - even those of us not as good as the others.
Charlie and Sandy Ferreri
Marengo, Illinois
Tina Kribbs-Keena
May 13, 2011
Mr. Gummerson was a Business Teacher of mine while I attended Conanat in the years 1984 - 1988. He was a wonderful teacher and person in general. I would see him on occasion when I would attend the Homecoming games at Conant after graduation and it was wonderful how he always remembered who you were. He will be greatly missed. My deepest sympathy to the family.
Rose Russo
May 13, 2011
I worked with Ron when I was a substitute teacher at Conant. He was an inspiration. When I became a full time teacher, I tried to teach the way he did. He never talked down to his students, always had a kind word. I'm sorry to hear of his passing. My deepest sympathy to his family.
Jamie Klotz
May 13, 2011
"The world is a fine place and worth fighting for and I hate very much to leave it."--Ernest Hemmingway I think Ron would have liked this notion and I am certain that he was a fighter. I learned more from our encounters and talks about doing things the right way during the 4 x 400 relay at the final turn with a 150 to go with him dispensing some wisdom and at the same time giving all of himself to the Conant runner racing. He was the epitome of greatness combined with humility that made those he ran into feel great too. He will be missed and remembered--and if I get suddenly knocked around a bit with 150 in the final leg of the 4 x 400 I know it will be my friend reminding me to fight, and fight well. Please accept my condolences.
Joe/Mary Gummeson
May 13, 2011
Sheila,
We are both very sorry to hear of Ronnie's passing. He was such a great guy. We enjoyed visiting with both of you when you returned home to Peoria especially at Mom's (Mercedes) birthday celebrations. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. Joe and Mary Kay Gummerson/Duluth
Lucas Otto
May 13, 2011
First, I would like to offer my deepest condolences to the Gummerson family.
Coach Gummerson, as I will always think of him, was a mentor to me on and off the track. What made Coach so amazing was that he gave everyone a chance to try, no matter the talent level, and sometimes, no matter whether a win or loss might be at stake. That always stuck with me, because while I was a “starter” on the track team, he let it be known that EVERYONE would get a chance on that track. That may not seem so special, but in today’s high school sports-world, where everyone is so serious about winning, and not everyone get’s a chance, that was not the way he operated. He was “track,” but he was a coach first, and in that sense, everyone was equal and everyone got a chance to shine.
Sure he wanted to win, but that was secondary to helping his student-athletes achieve something on that track. Coach Gummerson and I often laughed at each other’s jokes, but it was through his coaching and teachings that by my senior year this sarcastic, smart-mouthed kid had learned what it took to be a real competitor, person and champion.
Like many that competed, we competed for ourselves, but also for Coach Gummerson. It was as if you just did not want to let him down, he meant that much too each person. I still remember my competitive days with great fondness, but not for the wins and losses, or the personal achievements, but because of Coach Gummerson. He was the reason we all came out so early and started track practice in February; labored through in-door season running down the hallways of Conant getting shin splints; ran outside in hot weather with the sun beating down on us; and he was the reason many of us “Crossed the Line.”
Coach Gummerson, you will be missed!
Lisa Simon
May 13, 2011
To the Gummerson Family, I am so sorry to hear about Mr. Gummerson's passing. He was a true leaders and I always enjoyed working with him when he came to help out at meets. Many thoughts and prayers to your family.
John Schmid
May 13, 2011
My deepest sympathy to the Gummerson Family. Ron was my track coach from 1971 - 1975 at Maine East High and he made a profound impact on my life and probably everyone he came in contact with. He will truly be missed.
Kevin & Lisa Mikottis
May 13, 2011
Ron was a tremendous role model for thousands. I had the great privilege to be one those he made an impact on. On the track, in the classroom and at church he positively influenced me. To this day, I quote him and use his wisdom. No one can replace him, but because if his very talented gifts and personality, many are succeeding in emulating his traits. We were blessed to be touched by him.
Sheila and family, our deepest sympathies
Cindy Scherer
May 13, 2011
Mrs. Gummerson, Molly and family- My thoughts and prayers are with your during this difficult time. Mr. Gummerson was loved by all and the energy and laughter he brought to a room will always be remembered. Although it's difficult today to see beyond the sorrow, may looking back at all of your wonderful memories together help comfort you tomorrow.
Eric Suender
May 13, 2011
Coach Gummerson was a postive male role model, master teacher, brother and great person that brought out the best in you. His drive and motivation never made you feel lesser than him, rather made you attain to your individual greatness that he envisioned. We will carry his "will" as we work to guide youth to reach their potential and give them hope.
Burt Raabe
May 13, 2011
Ron was one of my first friends at Bradley and teammate on the mile relay team. An excellent athlete and friend, role model for anyone.
Patrick Savage
May 13, 2011
Sincere condolences to all the Gummerson families. Ron was a good friend as well as a great teacher and coach. We will miss him but we will never forget him.
gary randles
May 13, 2011
My condolences to Ron's family. I will definitely miss my former coach and teacher.
Jane Richards
May 13, 2011
Ron was a leader and mentor to me in D211. He will be greatly missed. My condolences to his family.
May 13, 2011
My deepest condolences to the Gummerson family. I am very sorry to hear this very unexpected news. I loved working with Ron and teaching some the great Gummerson kids at SHS.
Bob Thorsness
Galena, IL
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