GENE C. SUMNER, 82, of Severy, Kansas, passed away Wednesday afternoon, September 24, 2008 at his daughters' residence in Severy.

Born on June 10, 1926 in Cambridge, Kansas, he was the son of Rufus Samuel and Viola Delight (Chambers) Sumner. He was raised and received his education in rural Burden, Kansas. As a youth, Gene farmed and ranched.

Mr. Sumner proudly served his country in the United States Army from December 29, 1954 until December 11, 1956.

He was united in marriage on October 2, 1965 to Beverly Neal in Riverton, Kansas. While residing in Burden, Kansas, Gene had worked as a blacksmith and drove a school bus. He also had served as City Marshall and was a volunteer firefighter. He was employed at the Winfield State Hospital and Training Center as a security guard and later drove trucks for Melvin Lewis. Gene retired in 1990. Mrs. Sumner preceded him in death in 1974.

He was member of the American Legion Post #10 in Winfield. He enjoyed woodworking, gardening, fishing and making beef jerky. He was also well known for playing Santa Clause in Burden.

His family includes:
His daughters: Billie Jo Ray of Severy, KS; Marilyn Dillon and husband Larry of Enid, OK; and Carolyn Allison and husband Chris of Burns Flat, OK;
His brothers: Ray Sumner of Grove, OK; and Junior Sumner of Topeka, KS;
His sisters: Aletha Titus of Mulvane, KS; Faye Smith and Iris Howard both of Thayer, KS; and Nita Wilson of Winfield, KS;
His 6 grandchildren and 11 great- grandchildren with one on the way.
In addition to his parents and wife, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Howard and Orin; and his sister, Lois Dennett.

Funeral services will be held at 2:30 P.M., Saturday, September 27, 2008 at Miles Funeral Service in Winfield. Military committal honors will follow at the Burden Cemetery. Friends may call at the funeral home from 5:00 to 9:00 P.M., Friday, September 26, 2008.

A memorial has been established in Gene's name for Harry Hynes Memorial Hospice in Coffeyville, Kansas. Contributions may be made through the funeral home.

Online condolences may be made at www.milesfuneralservice.com.