ROBERT SUMMERS

1926 - 2021

SUMMERS Dr. Robert Allan Summers (1926-2021) Dr. Robert A. Summers had a distinguished career in federal government, notably in treaty verification and nuclear counter-proliferation. He retired as Chief of Verification and Intelligence from the U.S. State Department Arms Control & Disarmament Agency in 1995, having worked on the INF and START treaties between the U.S. and Soviet Union. His expertise on defense conversion brought him to Russia and China to work with nuclear scientists on converting military technology for civilian use. The workshops promoted peace by reducing incentive for scientists to develop weaponry for adversaries. Born April 15, 1926 in New York, Bob was the only child of Louis and Sidonia (Lubell) Summers. At age 15, he graduated from Townsend Harris High School, 1941. At age 18, he graduated from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI), BS, Aeronautical Engineering, 1945. He studied Aeronautical Engineering at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), MS in 1946 and ScD in 1954. In between RPI and MIT, Bob served his country's WW2 efforts designing and flight-testing elements of military aircraft. He received the Army Navy Award for Excellence in War Production, 1944-1945. In the 60's he worked at Institute of Naval Studies on the Starlight Program, assessing the impact of satellite technology on the future Navy; and at NASA on remote sensing programs including Earthsat. During the 70's he initiated and directed AID-funded applications of remote sensing in Africa, Asia, and Latin America. He worked for the U.S. Department of Energy on clean energy solutions for developing countries. Fascinated with history, geography and politics, Bob enjoyed traveling, meeting, and hosting people from around the world. Having visited dozens of countries for his work, he never lost interest in hearing stories from people he met at home or abroad. After retiring from U.S. Senior Executive Service, Bob consulted on international technology and national security. He enjoyed classical music and was an avid tennis player until age 82. Bob led the MIT Club of Washington for 30 years as President, on the Board of Directors, and Director Emeritus. Perpetually a pillar of his community, he also led his neighborhood civic association and PTA. In rehab after a stroke, he was dubbed "Mayor of Seaside" for his gregarious nature. Bob passed away February 10, 2021 in Maine. In addition to a career of service to his country and the greater good of humanity, Bob was a loving husband to his wife of over 55 years, Sherma Nancy (Spires) Summers, caring for her during a long struggle with Parkinson's disease. He was a devoted father to Robert Louis Summers, Kathleen Sidonia Summers and Suzanne Summers LaPierre. He is survived by his three children, their partners, and three grandchildren: Sidonia Summers, Carter Hanewinckel, and Nathan LaPierre. He is also survived by his cousin, Fred Mann. A memorial gathering will be held at a later date. Donations in Bob's honor may be made to MIT's scholarship fund for students in need: giving.mit.edu/memorial-honorary-gifts.A">giving.mit.edu/memorial-honorary-gifts.A memorial gathering will be held at a later date. Donations in Bob's honor may be made to MIT's scholarship fund for students in need: giving.mit.edu/memorial-honorary-gifts.