Dennis Paul Sumner, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away peacefully at his home in rural Ottawa, Kansas on November 24, 2025, surrounded by the love of his devoted wife, during his final moments.
Born on July 1, 1948, in Onaga, Kansas, Dennis spent his formative years grounded in the values instilled by his parents, Robert and Lois (Gunselman) Sumner. His upbringing nurtured a sense of service that would later lead him to join the United States Army, where he served from June 11, 1968, to June 10, 1970. Rising to the rank of Sergeant, Dennis earned the National Defense Service Medal and was recognized as a Sharp Shooter with the M-14 rifle.
Dennis was a graduate of Pomona High School, where he met the love of his life, Cathy. They married December 3, 1966, sharing a beautiful life of fifty-nine years together. He often brought her flowers for no particular reason, and every day he would say “Have I told you today how pretty you are?” He sometimes had his days when he got out of sorts but he always made sure that his wife Cathy felt his unwavering love and support. He was her rock.
Dennis was a man of many passions. He celebrated an incredible forty-seven years of sobriety, a testament to his strength and determination. His love for motorcycles and camping filled his life with adventure and joy, creating lasting memories with family and friends. Additionally, he worked on the family farm, taking pride in the connection to the land and the labor it required. He cleared an area near the house which he called the “park” and hung swings, bought and painted old lawn chairs, and made a fire pit. In the fall, he would have friends out for picnics.
As a family man, Dennis cherished his role as a father to daughter Nikki and son Corey. He volunteered as a boy scout pack leader when Corey was in scouts, and always told Nikki she was his baby girl, no matter how old she was. He took immense delight in being a grandfather and father-figure to his grandsons Aaron Lehman, Tanner Ho and Spouse Branden Ho, and in watching his family grow with three great grandchildren who brought even more light into his life. His love and commitment to his family were evident in every gathering and shared experience, and he will be remembered fondly by all who had the privilege of knowing him
Dennis’s Celebration of Life will be held at Community Foursquare Church located at 119 East 9th Street, Ottawa, Kansas, on December 6, 2025, commencing at 11:00 AM. Everyone in attendance should feel free to share memories of Dennis and how he affected their lives.
Though Dennis is preceded in death by his parents, sister Sandy Sage, and his daughter Nikki, his spirit will continue to resonate with those who loved him dearly. The legacy he leaves behind is one of love, resilience, and unwavering support for his family. They will continue to feel his love.
