Community Mourns Passing of Jean Sumner, 72, in Texas

Jean Marie (Bee) Sumner, aged 72, passed away on October 24, 2025, at her home in Rockport, Texas. After a prolonged battle with chronic lymphocytic leukemia, her family announced that she is now at peace. Sumner’s life was marked by her dedication to family, career, and a love for travel.

Born on December 21, 1952, in Plum City, Wisconsin, to Kenny and Pat Bee, Jean spent her formative years in Embarrass, Minnesota. She graduated from Virginia High School in 1971 and later earned her Bachelor of Accountancy from the University of Minnesota Duluth in 1981. Her professional career spanned over two decades at Wells Fargo, where she worked until her retirement in 2006.

Jean married Steve Sumner on February 14, 1987, in Duluth, Minnesota. Together, they shared a passion for travel, often spending time in Mexico and the Caribbean. In recent years, they enjoyed winters in Yuma, Arizona, and had recently purchased a home in Rockport. Summers were typically spent back in Embarrass, where she cherished the company of family and friends.

She is survived by her three daughters: Leslie (Brad) Brunfelt of Duluth, Kristen (John) Peek of Orlando, and Amy (Dennis) Christopherson of Arkansaw, as well as her stepson Jason Sumner and bonus daughter Julie Sumner. Jean’s legacy continues through her grandchildren: Emily and Sydney Hanna, Ben and Aaron Fulford, Tabitha (Cody) Strzyzykowski, Matthew Sumner, Miranda, Robert, and Alice Christopherson. She also leaves behind two great-grandchildren, Elizabeth and Mackenzie Strzyzykowski.

Jean was close to her siblings, including Linda (Duane) Henry of Lacey, Washington; Ann Lamppa of Virginia, Minnesota; Jodi (Perry) Kronenbush of Rochester, Minnesota; and Chuck (Patty) Bee of Tower, Minnesota. She had a wide circle of nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and her partner, Bob Schroeder, along with her beloved dog, Sassy.

Jean is preceded in death by her parents, her husband of 34 years, Steve Sumner, her son Travis Nevala, and her brother-in-law, Lon Lamppa.

A celebration of life is scheduled for November 19, 2025, at Timber Hall in Embarrass, Minnesota, starting at 11:00 a.m. Family and friends are invited to share their condolences and memories online at charliemarshallfuneralhomes.com. Jean Sumner will be remembered for her warmth, adventurous spirit, and the love she shared with those around her.