Torri Deanne Sumner Obituary (1972

Torri’s sweet spirit came into this world on Feb 23, 1972. She was the daughter of Tom Sumner and Deanne Midgley-Geiger. She had three sisters Kris, Kelly and Jodi and her brother Kevin who spent many hours with her at the care facilities she lived in for most of her life. She was born three months early and could fit in the palm of her Father’s hand. Her story landed in local newspapers because She was the youngest and smallest Preemie at Primary children’s hospital in SLC. The Doctors weren’t certain she’d survive, but Torri was one tough cookie and not only survived, but lived to the age of 49 despite the doctor’s prediction that she wouldn’t make it past 20. Even though she was diagnosed with cerebral palsy, she was able to thrive and get the most out of life regardless of her limited mobility. She rarely let her disabilities get her down and never dwelled on negative things. She was a bright, positive light in our family and was loved by everyone who knew her. She always had a sparkle to her. Her smile and laughter were infectious. She loved parties and holiday events. She attended many Easter Brunches, Daddy Daughter dances, and her sweet 16 Birthday at the Provo Elks Lodge where her mom worked. She was incredibly social and loved being in the middle of the action. She could dance like no one’s business. She may not have had full use of her legs or left arm, but she’d shake her right arm and kick her legs as best she could, toss her head back and forth and squeal with delight when we would spin her around in her wheelchair on the dance floor. She loved country western music the most, and had a huge crush on Tim McGraw. Her CD collection was impressive and she loved to listen to her tunes. She was ecstatic when she visited Disneyland. She loved Splash Mountain and meeting the princesses, Mickey and Minnie and all the other characters. They all made a point of coming to greet her and take pictures. She got celebrity status there which made her so happy. She had a huge collection of Disney movies, Frozen being her favorite. She spent many hours coloring and burned through packs of pens that her brother Kevin kept replacing for her. He also kept her well stocked with her favorite drinks, Pepsi and Dr Pepper. She was always a girly girl and loved frills, lace, fancy dresses and the color pink. She loved getting her hair and nails done. By far, her favorite animals were dogs. They could get her to laugh like nothing else. Baby dolls, barbies and big stuffed animals lined the wall, from floor to ceiling of her room at Provo Rehab. When she was able, attending church and singing hymns gave her great happiness and filled her with joy. Her spirit was always close to God and the Angels. She’d often talk about going home to Jesus and the angels. On November 1, 2021, at 8:30 a.m., the Lord brought her home. She passed peacefully at Utah Valley hospital from renal failure due to complications from an infection. Finally, her spirit was freed from her suffering, broken body. The Lord gave her a strong, working body and long beautiful legs so she can dance freely and run into the arms of her waiting family. Private family services have been held. Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.bergmortuary.com.