IN MEMORIAM OF James Matt Gummerson

James Matt Gummerson, 93, of Vero Beach, FL passed away Thursday, June 21, 2018 at his home.

Jim was born in Owen, WI to the late John H. and Julia Maurer Gummerson veteran of WW II, serving for three years in the US Marine Corp. in the South Pacific and Asia during WW II.

Jim had a very storied career in his field of interest.  It was in 1948 that he entered the family owned farm equipment business before joining Allis-Chalmers Mftg. Co. in 1955 where he was the territory manager (Blockman) serving in Illinois, Iowa and Minnesota.  In 1960 he founded Mid-States Equipment, Inc., a midwest distribution Co. in the fluid power field and currently operated by his son, James.  In 1978 Jim formed Sun Hydraulics Co. in Florida engaging in the marketing of hydraulic components. Then in 1985, Jim started Mid-States Hydraulics School Equipment and Educational Div. which developed fluid power training equipment and related education programs marketed to high schools, technical schools and universities.  Jim began a consulting business to the fertilizer and citrus industry in 1989.  Most recently, prior to his retirement, Jim served as a consultant to Mid-States Equipment, Inc. in Medford, WI.

Jim enjoyed traveling America by motorhome and the rest of the world via cruise ship. His other hobbies included playing cards (especially Bridge and Cribbage), entertaining friends at home, as well as investing in the stock market. Jim was also an avid outdoorsman. He thoroughly enjoyed hunting and fishing. Most of all Jim enjoyed any of these activities spent in the company of his wife, Milly,  children, grandchildren or great grandchildren.

Jim was a faithful member of Holy Cross Catholic Church in Vero Beach.  He was also a Third and Fourth Degree member of the Knights of Columbus, the American Legion and the Marine Corp League.

Survivors include his beloved wife Mildred Gummerson, daughters Mary Melbinger and Judy Mathewson, son James Gummerson, seven grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his brothers Jack and Charles Gummerson.

Memorial contributions may be made to Samaritan Center of Vero Beach, 3650 41st St, Vero Beach, FL 32967, St. Francis Manor, 1750 20th Ave, Vero Beach, FL 32960, The ARC, 1375 16th Avenue, Vero Beach 32960.

Mass with military honors for Jim will be celebrated beginning at 10 AM, Saturday, June 30, 2018 at Holy Cross Catholic Church.