Paul A. Summitt was a natural charmer who never met a stranger. Even as Alzheimer’s took his memories, it never took his spirit or his love of being “Partying Paul”.
Paul lived a full life and left those who loved him dearly with so many cherished memories that will live on. After a successful 32-year career as an advertising salesman at the St. Louis Post Dispatch, Paul couldn’t sit still, and took on what many in the family believed to be his favorite role: a school bus driver for the O’Fallon School District. He loved golf, tennis, and getting a bronze tan in the summer. He was an avid videographer, always with a camcorder in his hand, documenting every event in his daughter and then grandchildren’s lives. He had a passion for being on the stage and could be seen in a number of roles at the Looking Glass Theater in Lebanon, Illinois (his favorite and most prized role, Mark Twain in Big River). Paul loved sweets and having something cool to drink on a hot day. He loved life. And life loved him right back.
Paul joined the party in the sky at the age of 92 on Sunday, June 4, 2023. Waiting for him to arrive were his parents, Paul A. Summitt, Sr. and Leona Summitt (nee Dittman); the love of his life Ruth A. Summitt (nee Ellis); and cherished daughter, Angela R. Summitt. Missing him here are his three grandchildren: Tara (Secilia) Rujawitz, Tatum (Stephanie) Tipton, and Richard (Lauren) Hurst; and great-grandson, Lennon Rujawitz.
Memorials: Memorials may be made to Alzheimer’s Association or Looking Glass Playhouse in Lebanon, IL.
Interment and final good-bye is scheduled for Friday, June 9, 2023, at noon, at Lakeview Memorial Gardens in the Mausoleum Chapel. Luncheon to follow.