Passed away on Tuesday, July 25th, 2023.
In Loving Memory of a Life Well-Lived
It is with heavy hearts, but fond memories, the family announces the passing of Donald A. Summa. Don was born in 1938 to Andrew and Florence Summa; he is preceded in death by his brother, John Summa. In addition to his loving wife of 56 years, Phyllis (nee Breier), Don leaves behind a cherished family that brought him immense pride and joy. His sister, Diana Dickneite (Bernard), his daughters Michele Dimmick (Brent), Julie Hiblovic, and Cherie Summa will miss him beyond measure. Among his most treasured gifts were his grandchildren, Michael and Philip Hiblovic, and Ashlyn and Bryan Dimmick.
Don adored his family more than anything in the world. He cherished every moment spent with them and was an unwavering pillar of support, generosity, and love. He taught his children and grandchildren the value of hard work and how to cherish the little things in life. He loved spending time with his grandchildren and cheering them on at countless twirling competitions, football, basketball, baseball, and soccer games.
He lovingly referred to his wife as “Mama.” This term of endearment spoke volumes about the affection and admiration he held for her. Together, they built a home filled with love and laughter.
He was an avid sportsman, enjoying tennis into his late 70’s, biking, hiking fourteeners and running. He even conquered a few marathons. One of his closest friends described him as a “gamer”; he never said no to a new adventure and was always up for a challenge or friendly competition.
After he retired, you could usually find him tending to his beloved lawn and garden. He used his creativity to design numerous walls, paths and flower beds.
Don had the gift of gab and could strike up a conversation with anyone he met. As a result, there was never just a “quick” trip to the store. Whether it was an old friend or a new acquaintance, he treated everyone with warmth and genuine interest, and his conversations were always sprinkled with humor.
Don was known for his strong work ethic and sense of responsibility. He retired from Fred Weber, Inc. after 36 years, never missing a day of work. He approached everything in life with dedication and commitment, always striving to provide the best for his family. Whether on the court, in the garden, or at the quarry, he gave it his all.
Before there was MapQuest, there was Don. If you called him and told him what intersection you were near or what color the house was on the corner, he could get you where you needed to go.
Alzheimer’s may have taken its toll, but it could never overshadow the vibrant man he was. He continued to be in good spirits and tell jokes and laugh throughout his illness. His family stood by him with unwavering love, and they will always hold on to the memories that made him who he was.
May Don find eternal solace in the great courts of heaven, where he can chat away with kindred spirits and tend to the most heavenly gardens. As we say goodbye, we take comfort in knowing that Don will live on in the flowers he planted, the trails he hiked, the matches he won, and the hearts he touched.
SERVICES: A celebration of Don’s life will be held at 12 noon on August 20th, 2023, at Bartolino’s Osteria at 2103 Sulphur Ave. in St. Louis, Missouri. Family and friends are invited to attend and share his favorite dishes – lasagna, spaghetti, and of course hamburgers!
In remembrance of Don’s life, the family asks that charitable donations be made to Memory Care Home Solutions. (https://interland3.donorperfect.net/weblink/weblink.aspx?name=E348177&id=32). This organization was a godsend to the Summa family and helped them navigate Don’s care as he struggled with Alzheimer’s.
I remember Don well on the tennis court. A competitor and a gentleman. I am sorry for your loss.
so sorry to hear, a great man, Father, friend and cousin…R.I.P.
Good thing I didn’t play tennis against Don. He would have embarrassed me! What a great person.
I worked at Fred Weber with Don. No one, and I mean NO ONE, had a better reputation as being a more solid employee there than Don. That belief was held by top management as well as all those he worked with in the field. I could not have been prouder to tell my fellow employees that he was my cousin. God bless you Don.
Don and I attended school from 5th grade at Grant School thru 7th grade at C0ncord School, 8th grade at Sappington School and the four years at Lindberg Highschool. Always great memories.
Don will be missed. It was my sincere pleasure to have The Summa family as friends for many years.
My deepest condolences to all of you.
I just learned of your dad’s, husband’s and grandpa’s passing) and read all about him. I’m sorry I didn’t personally know him. But I’ve never read an obituary that so beautifully captures what a terrific dad and all around great person he was. I’ sorry for your loss but know that his love of adventure, fun and food lives on in the generations he brought to life.
November 28, 2023, Happy birthday! Hopefully, you and her are enjoy the birthday day as she shared her on November 15, 2023. Miss the both of you. Love you both
Should be Sister. Diana Dickneite