William “Bill” Eugene Summers, 94, currently of Eldon, Missouri, passed away peacefully Thursday, October 19, 2023 at Eldon Nursing & Rehab, surrounded by his family. He was born in Benton, Illinois, on November 23, 1928; a son to the late Rassie Summers and Myrtle (Diagger) Godbey. On January 13, 1948, he was united in marriage to Kathryn “Katie” Louise Sisk in Jacksonville, Illinois.

Bill joined the United States Army and proudly served during World War II. He was honorable discharged from active duty in November 1947. Following his time in the service, Bill worked various jobs including for the Railroad, as the Apartment Manager for Wymore Apartments for 10 years, and as a carpenter in Barry, Illinois, building houses. He was also a body and frame guru for Broom’s Auto Body for 40 years in total. Bill ended his working career as Maintenance Supervisor for the State of Missouri at the Ike Skelton Training Site.

Along with being a working man, Bill was also a loving family man. He took pride in his children and grandchildren, and enjoyed spending time with each of them. He loved fishing and was very passionate about archery and making bows. His legacy and life will be remembered and cherished by those who know and love him.

He is survived by his loving wife of 75 years, Katie; children, Robert Lee Summers of Olean, Missouri, Sandra Kay (John) Barbour of Jefferson City, Missouri, Tamara Jean (Gene) Painter of Boonville, Missouri, and Julie Gayle (Tim) Backes of Centertown, Missouri; 5 grandchildren; and 8 great-grandchildren.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to the American Cancer Society or a charity of the donor’s choice.

Arrangements are under the direction of Millard Family Cremation & Funeral Center, 902 East North Street, Eldon, Missouri 65026 (573) 392-3351. Condolences may be left online for the family at www.millardfamilychapels.com.