Brian P. Summers

Brian Patrick Summers of Germantown, TN, born May 2, 1978 in Win eld, IL to Brian John and Elizabeth (Wolnski) Summers died May 21, 2025. Brian lived graciously and courageously with Crohn's Disease and small bowel cancer for many years. Brian married the love of his life, Tracy Lynn (Buchholz), on August 16, 2008, in Grand Ledge, MI. Tracy is the daughter of Debbie (Van Wyk) and the late Vaughn Buchholz. Together, Brian and Tracy built a beautiful life and were the proud, devoted parents of Peyton and Regan. Brian was also a beloved brother to Katherine (Douglas) Schmitt and Kevin (Kate Palm) Summers, brother-in-law to Michelle (Garrett) Masters, and a loving uncle to Beckett Schmitt, Rhys and Elinor Summers, and Madison Masters. Brian spent his childhood and formative years in Illinois, Richmond, VA, and Grand Haven, MI. He graduated from Oswego High School (IL) and went on to attend North Central College in Naperville, IL, where he earned a BA in English with a journalism emphasis and played Division III baseball and golf. Following graduation, he served as a graduate assistant in DePaul University's sports information department before starting his career at Lewis University (Joliet, IL), where he served in several roles, ultimately becoming Associate Athletic Director. While at Lewis, he attained his Masters in Business Administration with a finance emphasis, but more importantly he met his soulmate, Tracy. After thirteen years at Lewis, Brian, Tracy and their two daughters relocated to Tennessee after accepting the position of Athletic Director at Christian Brothers University (CBU) in Memphis. Brian built a warm, family-oriented culture within the athletic department where he developed special programs, including Buccaneer Scholars and All Hands on Deck, a personal development initiative. In his spare time, he was an adjunct instructor for courses in sports administration. He was loved by all within the Athletic Department and university. Later, Brian brought his financial expertise to ALSAC, the fundraising and awareness organization for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in Memphis. True to form, he made a significant positive impact in many departments. Brian was beloved by his colleagues for his kindness, sharp wit, and the sense of camaraderie he inspired in the team. His contributions left a lasting legacy that will continue to support St. Jude's mission and benefit children for years to come. Brian was a huge fan of all things sports, especially the Chicago White Sox and Bears. However, his greatest enthusiasm was saved for Peyton and Regan, often serving as their teams' coach. When not watching or coaching sports, Brian loved to golf, especially with Tracy and his daughters. He was very proud of scoring a hole in one at Broken Arrow Golf Club in Lockport, IL. Brian had a deep appreciation for vintage typewriters, watches, fountain pens, and roller coasters–interests that reflected his curiosity and love of life. Ultimately, his absolute greatest joy was being a dad and spending time with his family. Brian left a lasting impact on all who knew him. Whether through a kind word, a clever joke, a well-timed movie one-liner, or unwavering support, he made people feel seen and valued. His presence will be deeply missed. The celebration of his life will be held at Germantown United Methodist Church on June 19, 2025 from 4:00pm to 7:00pm for visitation with the family. On June 20, 2025, a brief visitation is scheduled at 10:00am with the service beginning at 11:00am. A second service will be held in the Chicagoland area in July. Memorials and donations in Brian's memory can be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital (stjude.org), Crohn's Colitis Foundation (crohnscolitisfoundation.org), The American Cancer Society (cancer.org), (please specify small intestine cancer research only) or to your local youth sports programs to benefit their hardworking umpires and referees. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Brian, please visit our floral store.