Steven C. Sumner

Steven Charles Sumner, 59, of Limestone Township, formerly of Essex, passed away Friday, February 3, 2023, at the University of Chicago Medical Center, following a short illness. Steve was born to Charles and Joyce (Decker) Sumner on April 10, 1963, in Kankakee, Illinois. He married the former Ronda Harpst on September 25, 1993, in Irwin, Illinois. Steve attended school in the RUCE school district. In addition to his wife, Ronda, Steve is survived by two daughters, Rachel of Limestone Township and Carly (fiancé Cody Jamison) of Bloomington; sister, April (Eric) Mickelson of Limestone Township; brother, Brian Sumner of Essex; mother-in-law, Jeanie Harpst of Fisher; brother and sister-in-law Dan and Stephanie Harpst of Champaign; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Charlie and Joyce; and his father-in-law, John Harpst. Steve was the owner of Sumner Trucking and Septic Service. In addition to his business, he was a jack of all trades for the town of Essex and surrounding areas. He could fix most anything, and would repurpose many items no one had a use for. He was known for his signature look of a pocket t-shirt, blue jeans, and suspenders. Steve was devoted to his girls and would drop what he was doing to help them with anything, whether it be dance class, gymnastics, marching band, horse shows, car troubles- all they had to do was ask. Memorials can be made to the Essex Fire Department. Visitation will be held on Friday, February 10, 2023, from 9:00AM - 12:00PM, at Jensen Funeral Home in Kankakee, Illinois. A funeral service will begin at 12:00PM. Burial will be at Essex North Cemetery.