Obituary of William Carlton Summler

William's Message:

William Carlton Summler, “Chucky”, “Big Bill”, 70, of Indianapolis, IN passed away on February 20, 2024. William was born February 1, 1954, in Hollis, Queens, New York to William Raeford Summler and Emily Phillips Greer. William enjoyed fishing, jujitsu, bowling, music, and sports. He was a Vietnam veteran, proudly and bravely serving, earning an honorable discharge from US Navy. He worked with horses, caring, grooming, and traveling with them throughout the US. This ignited his love for travel.  Later he became a commercial over the road (OTR) truck driver. He traveled across the U.S., but frequented New York, the Carolinas, California, and Florida because he loved spending time with family. Later in his career he established his own company, Summler and Sons. This was one of his greatest achievements. His favorite truck to drive was a Peterbilt. Unfortunately, his health declined and could no longer drive for a living.  He was a 12-year cancer survivor.  He loved life and lived it on his own terms. He was witty and had a gift of gab like no other, and always full of humor. William is preceded in death by his parents; and brother Bertram Greer and Cynthia Rhodes. Williams is survived by his children William Summler and Carlton Summler, daughter-in-law Stacyann; 5 grandchildren William the 4th, Stacen, Nasir, Nacari, and Carlton Jr. (CJ); and his sister Victoria Summler, to whom he was delighted to be reconnected with her after more than 35 years. He was a great father, grandfather, and friend to all. We will cherish all the good memories we've had over the years. Most recently Thanksgiving 2023. Our last big family gathering.

Did I tell you I love you, today?   We love you!!                  10:4

Carlton's message

My dad was the light of the rooms and places he walked in. No matter where we went he knew someone. I can tell that the way people embrace his presence, he was a very special guy. He loved shooting pool, throwing darts, and listening to music. 

I had the opportunity to do something special for him. I took him to an unofficial visit I had at a Purdue football game. He was very anxious and eager to get there. We showed up 2 hrs before we were suppose to get there, 5hrs before game time. That day he bought so much gear: hats,mugs and a jersey.  I had to tell him to stop picking up stuff because I was uncertain if I  wanted to attend Purdue.  I use to bring my teammates and friends to his house.  They  would be like, " yo, pops is a very cool dude", after the embarrassments or jokes he cracked. 

I'm going to miss certain talks we would have and I'm going to miss how we got off the phone with him saying..."Did I tell you I love you today?