Obituary: Chris Rachel Sumner, 75, Sandy
Chris Rachel Sumner
Chris Rachel Sumner, 75, a longtime resident of The Dalles, died Tuesday, July 7, 2026, at her apartment in Sandy.
She was born March 27, 1951, in Casa Grande, Arizona, to Amelia Melendez and Margarito Rodriguez. She grew up in Phoenix and graduated from high school in 1969.
After settling in The Dalles, Sumner built a 31-year career with the State of Oregon. She took great pride in her work with the Oregon Employment Department and the Department of Human Services, formerly known as Adult and Family Services.
She was active in the community and served on the boards of several organizations, including the Mid-Columbia Housing Authority and the Mid-Columbia Economic Development District. She also worked as a Spanish interpreter and recorded Spanish-language public service announcements for local radio stations.
She married the late Robert Victor Sumner in July 1978 at the MGM Grand Hotel in Reno, Nevada. During their 35-year marriage, they raised two children, made their home in The Dalles and enjoyed traveling together.
In 2003, three months before her planned retirement, Sumner suffered a severe brain aneurysm. She was flown by Life Flight to Portland, where doctors said she was not expected to survive beyond 24 hours. She recovered and returned home about 2½ months later. Despite the lasting effects of the aneurysm, she remained determined to participate in the activities she enjoyed for many years afterward.
Survivors include her daughter, Sandra Remsburg of The Dalles; her son, Robert Sumner of Arlington, Virginia; and three grandchildren, Sofia, Brandon and Rachel. She was preceded in death by her husband, her mother and her stepfather, Manuel Lyles.
At her request, no service will be held. Those wishing to honor her memory are encouraged to enjoy a nice meal and offer a toast in her remembrance. Memorial contributions may be made to a local animal rescue organization.
