GERALD CHESTER SUMNER

On Monday, Aug. 22, 2011, Gerald Chester Sumner, of International Falls, Mn., was called home by his Heavenly Father.
He was sad to leave but after losing the fight with cancer, he was ready to go home and be free from pain and suffering.
Gerald was born to Chester and Rose Sumner in Littlefork, Mn. on July 18, 1939. He grew up in International Falls and lived there his whole life.
After graduating in 1957, Jerry joined the U.S. Navy and travelled throughout the world, gaining many friendships that lasted the rest of his life.
While he was in the navy, Jerry spent a lot of time writing to a young woman he had fallen in love with back home. After his return from the service, he soon married Ruth Margaret Corrigan, from Emo, Ont., on Nov. 18, 1961.
Gerald worked from 1961-71 at Holler Liquor before joining the police force in 1971, being involved with all departments from water patrol to chief of police. He retired from law enforcement after 26 years of service in 1996.
After hanging up his badge, Jerry began driving for City Cab for several years, meeting new friends who became like family.
Jerry loved driving, travelling, spending time with his family, and being surrounded by his grandchildren. He also was an avid music lover and, if you listened carefully, you could hear him hum along with the songs.
Gerald was predeceased by his parents, Chester and Rose Sumner; mother- and father-in-law, Olive and Lawrence Corrigan; and brother-in-law, Paul Warren.
He is survived by his wife of almost 50 years, Ruth; four children, Brian, Michael, Susan, and Karen; grandchildren, Constance, Jaimee, Grace, James, Tracy, Nick, Levi, Amelia, Madison, and Calvin; and one great-granddaughter, Payton.
Also surviving are his brother, Dennis (Cathy) Sumner; sister, Judy Warren; sister-in-law, Irene (Don) MacDougall; brother-in-law, Bill (Marilyn) Corrigan; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Visitation will be held Friday, Aug. 26, 2011 from 5-7 p.m. at the Green-Larsen Mortuary in International Falls, Mn., with vigil service at 6:30 p.m.
Memorial services will be held Saturday, Aug. 27, 2011 at 11 a.m. at St. Thomas Catholic Church in International Falls.
In memoriam donations may be made to the American Diabetes Association, the American Cancer Association, or North Star Hospice.
Online condolences may be offered at www.greenlarsen.com