JERRY SUMMERS

SUMMERS, JERRY 73, died November 1, 2010 at his home in Oviedo. He was born in Bristol, PA to the late James and Pauline Summers. He moved to Miami in 1947 and always called Florida his home. Upon graduating from Miami Technical School, Jerry joined the U. S. Navy. After his honorable discharge, he started his lifelong career in the lumber/hardware business. For 20 years, he owned and operated Family Hut Lumber & Building Materials, Inc. in Oviedo. When he retired in 1998, the sign out front of the store read "It's been fun - thanks for the memories!" It was never work to Jerry, it was his playground. In 1994, Jerry was awarded the Carnegie Hero Medal for saving the lives of his two friends in a motor home accident in Canada. For him, what he did was just routine, he did what had to be done, and was always very humble about the recognition. Every day, Jerry played the game of life. He lived it, he loved it. He loved his family and friends. The love of his life, his wife Pat, his daughter Cindy and sons Gary and Brian. His brother Ray, wife Brenda and many nieces and nephews of whom he was so proud. He was called "Uncle" by many young people because of their love and respect for him, especially Raney, Angie and Tony. Yet, Cliff preferred to call him "Dad" because the word friend was just not enough. His ex-wife, Frances, and daughter-in-law, Joy, remained his best friends until the end. Jerry lived the cliché make new friends, but keep the old; one is silver, the other gold. Upon retiring, Jerry spent his time socializing, eating out (loved those desserts!), traveling, fishing, his toy soldiers, World War II history, discussing politics and playing cards. Plus, as he once said "God blessed me with the ability to sleep". A memorial service and celebration of his life will be held Sunday, November 7, 2010 at 2 p.m. at the National Cremation and Burial Society, 7565 Red Bug Lake Road, Oviedo, FL 32765. Donations may be made to the American Diabetic Association, 1701 N. Beauregard St., Alexandria, VA 22311 or www.diabetes.org/donate.