Fred Albert Summerfield, 82, passed away peacefully Monday, Nov. 4, 2024, at the Tomah Veterans Hospital. Fred was born Jan. 10, 1942, to Fred and Pauline (Marcum) Summerfield in Parkersburg, W.V.
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, Wis., 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, Wis.; his sons, Terry (Lisa) Summerfield of North Carolina, Keith (Valerie) Summerfield of Virginia, Kevin (Crystal) Summerfield of Virginia, Mark (Chandra) of Virginia, and Kathy’s daughter, Lisa Cotton of Tennessee; his siblings, Nancy Doerson, Bill (Betty) Summerfield, Lee Summerfield, and Judy (Earl) Hall; nine grandchildren, Ryan (Ashton), Austin, Jordan, Myles(Rebecca), Layne, Mason, TJ, MJ and John; four 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; his siblings, Freda Perkins and Bob and Paul Summerfield; and a son-in-law, Charles Cotton.
A celebration of life will be from 2–5 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 6, at the Torkelson Funeral Home in Cashton, Wis. Full military honors will begin at 5 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 is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be offered at www.torkelsonfuneralhome.com.
