Harold R. 'Rockie' Kummer

(July 24, 1915 - June 9, 2005)

DOWNS, KAN. -- Harold R. "Rockie" Kummer, 89, died Thursday (June 9, 2005), at the Downs Care Center in Downs, Kan.

He was born July 24, 1915, at Indianola, to Aloysius John and Mary (Lehn) Kummer. He grew up in Indianola where he graduated from rural school. In 1931, he began working as a fireman and later became an engineer for the Burlington Railroad. He retired in 1970.

On March 21, 1936, he married Zella Leona Springer at Indianola and they spent their lives in McCook. Zella preceded him in death on Feb. 24, 1983.

He was a member of St. Patrick's Catholic Church, the Knights of Columbus and the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers.

He was preceded in death by his parents; four brothers, Edward, Stanley, Donald, and James Kummer; and one grandson.

Survivors include two daughters, Shirley Redeker, and husband, Sylvester of Downs, Kan., and Carroll Wheaton of LaSalle, Colo.; one sister, Mary Theresa of Arvada, Colo.; five grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren.

Mass of Christian burial will be Tuesday, 10 a.m., at St. Patrick's Catholic Church with the Rev. Gary Brethour officiating. Interment will be at Calvary Cemetery.

Rosary will be at 7 p.m., Monday, at Herrmann Memorial Chapel.

Memorials may be given in his name and friends may call Herrmann Funeral Home in McCook.

Herrmann Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.