Summer Ann Staley

It is with great sadness that the family of Summer Ann Staley, age 24 of Brookfield, Wisconsin, announced her passing on March 19, 2019. She will be missed immensely by her mother Kay Staley, sister and best friend Kaitlin Staley, and grandparents Karen Olson of Muskego and James and Nora Staley, as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. She is preceded in death by her father, James Thomas Staley, Jr. and grandfather Wayne G. Olson.

Summer’s name was no mistake. Like the first ray of sunshine after a long winter, Summer was an energizing soul with a glow that illuminated every room. Her warmth welcomed all; she accepted everyone just as God made them. And as quickly as the summer days turn into fall, our time with Summer went much too fast. The memories made in her short lifetime will never be forgotten.

Born in Minnesota, Summer lived in six states before finding her home in Brookfield. With each move, Summer’s sharp humor and fierce loyalty allowed her to make and keep an eclectic range of close friends. She always had kind words for others. Family was particularly important to her, and she added her quirky sense of fun to frequent gatherings and vacations with her large extended family. Over the years, endless board game nights created many cherished moments and highlighted Summer’s competitive spirit. Whether it was amusing her grammy’s quilting group, enlivening every adventure with her cousins, or entertaining friends and relatives, her verve for living knew no limits.

Often called the “life of the party,” she loved music and to dance and wear sparkly clothes with big hoop earrings and high-heeled shoes. Sharing her passion for glamour and artistic flair with friends, Summer became the source of trendy style and the latest hair and makeup tips. She had an uncanny way of making even the mundane an exciting excursion.

Summer’s bright personality and contagious energy led to endearing nicknames. To friends, she was known as “Sum Sum.” Family often called her “Sumsy.” To Kaitlin, she was known as “Chummel” or “Z,” but perhaps her favorite epithet was that given to her by her father: “Peach.” Summer had a special relationship with her mother, whom she called her “Medium Momma,” and her father, JT.

Despite being three years her junior, Summer was her sister Kaitlin’s comfort and protector. They shared a unique bond, complete with their own language of Summer’s made-up words. While they were sisters by chance, they were best friends by choice.

May we all love as greatly, accept as widely and laugh as loudly as Summer. Her gregarious nature, strength of character and nurturing persona define her legacy.

There will be a private service at St. Luke’s Lutheran Church in Greendale. Family would like to invite all to a celebration of Summer’s life on Wednesday, March 27 at 6:30 pm in the pavilion at Picnic Area 1, Fox Brook Park, 2925 N Barker Rd in Brookfield.