Fred Albert Summerfield, 82 passed away peacefully Monday, November 4, 2024, at the Tomah Veterans Hospital. Fred was born January 10, 1942, to Fred and Pauline (Marcum) Summerfield, in Parkersburg, West Virginia.
After completing high school, Fred felt a strong call to serve his country and enlisted in the U.S. Army. His military career was both distinguished and adventurous, spanning two decades during which he played a vital role as the Quartermaster in supplies. His service took him across the world, from the battlegrounds of Vietnam and Korea to the serene landscapes of Germany. It was during these years that Fred’s four sons were born in various locations around the world, a testament to the global life he led while serving his country.
In the latter part of his military tenure, Fred’s expertise in logistics and his passion for education merged. He spent eight years teaching logistics to the Royal Saudi Navy in Saudi Arabia, where he also dedicated time to teaching English. His students benefited greatly from his extensive knowledge and his ability to convey complex concepts with ease and clarity
Upon retiring from the Army, Fred settled in Cashton, Wisconsin, the hometown of his beloved wife, Kathy. It was here that he discovered a new way to serve, becoming a cherished driver for the Amish community. Fred’s willingness to assist with transportation to appointments and other necessary travels was more than just a helpful service; it was a testament to the spirit of his community support.
Fred is survived by his wife of 38 years, Kathy (Biever) of Cashton, WI; sons, Terry (Lisa) Summerfield of N.C., Keith (Valerie) Summerfield of VA, Kevin (Crystal) Summerfield of VA, Mark (Chandra) of VA, and Kathy’s daughter, Lisa Cotton of TN; siblings, Nancy Doerson, Bill (Betty) Summerfield, Lee Summerfield, and Judy (Earl) Hall; 9 grandchildren, Ryan (Ashton), Austin, Jordan, Myles(Rebecca), Layne, Mason, TJ, MJ and John; 4 great grandchildren, Kaelyn, Atlee, Gunner and Raegan; along with other relatives and friends.
Fred was preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Pauline; his first wife Sarah; siblings, Freda Perkins, Bob and Paul Summerfield; and a son-in-law, Charles Cotton.
A Celebration of Life will be held, Wednesday, November 6, 2024, 2:00 -5:00 p.m. at the Torkelson Funeral Home in Cashton, WI. Full Military Honors will begin at 5:00 p.m. outside of the funeral home on Wednesday.
Memorials may be made in Fred’s name to the Cashton First Responders, or to the Cashton VFW Scholarship Fund.
The Torkelson Funeral Home of Cashton, WI is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be offered at www.torkelsonfuneralhome.com
Torkelson Funeral Home
