Clayton "Jay" Summers

Clayton "Jay" Summers, age 84, passed away Wednesday, May 8, 2013in Jackson. He was born August 3, 1928 in Plains, KS to the late Hiram and Edith Summers. In 1945, at age 15, his family moved from Dodge City, KS to California. He opened his business, S&W Equipment, in San Jose in 1951. He moved to the mother lode in 1966 opening the original business Amador Equipment Co. at Sutter Hill, then moving to his new building at the intersection of Highway 88 and Ridge Road where the Paul Bunyan statue still remains as an Amador Landmark. Jay and his wife, Pat sold the business in 1978 and developed the other three buildings on the property. In the 60's and 70's, he would work on chain saws and other equipment for the loggers. Friday was the day the loggers would gather at his shop to wind up their work week, hanging out with friends while Jay would get their saws ready for the following week. The fellows had a great time! Most of the original loggers are gone now, but young Earl Dalton would saunter in and the fun would begin. Earl would say to Jay "he spoke with forked tongue"! Jay enjoyed the years and his many friends/customers. He knew the business well and had a good sense of humor and business skills, he was well liked. He will be missed by family/friends. Jay enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping, traveling to Alaska, all over the United States, and Europe. He is survived by his wife, Pat; sons, Dale Summers and David Summers both of Montana; son, Michael Bishop of Plymouth; and many nieces and nephews in Kansas, Missouri, and Montana. He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Jack Summers, Ken Summers; sister, Jean Bushell; and son, Robert. A graveside service was held Mary 15, 2013 at Sunset View Cemetery in Jackson. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the charity of the donor's choice.