Kenneth H. Summerer

Kenneth H. Summerer, 94, of Farmington died on Friday (September 6, 2019). He was born in South Haven, Michigan and lived in Connecticut since 1968. He was predeceased by his loving wife of 68 years, Joyce E. Summerer; a brother, Raymond Summerer of Otsego, MI, and sisters, Lucille Johnson of Benton Harbor, MI and Florence Beatty, of Gobles, MI. He leaves behind two sons, Mike H. Summerer MD and wife Pat of Prospect Harbor, ME and Scott E. Summerer and wife Heather of Hebron, CT; grandchildren Eric, Tracy, Shawn, Adam, Sydney, and Jordan; and great grandchildren Noah and Evan. In addition to raising a healthy and loving family he enjoyed home and auto projects big and small, always happy to lend a helping hand to others. He will be remembered for his smile and gentle spirit. Professionally, he dedicated his career to service in education, starting right after college as a teacher in mathematics and physics. He received a doctorate in college administration from Michigan State University and master's degree in mathematics from the University of Michigan. In Michigan, he taught at the high school, junior college, and university level, progressing into administration as an assistant dean at Flint Community Junior College, and then as assistant to the superintendent of schools. In Connecticut, he continued in a leadership role at Eastern Connecticut State University, first as dean of administration, and then as acting president. For 14 years, he served as deputy director of the Connecticut community college system, retiring in 1986 as the President of Mattatuck Community College. Following retirement, he continued as a consultant for six years to the Higher Education Center Administration Council in Waterbury. The family wishes to thank all of the caregivers that helped support and comfort him the last few years and will be celebrating his life privately.