Loretta Faye Shumake

The extraordinary life of Loretta James (Guerrini) Shumake began on July 26, 1924 and ended Sept. 29, 2026. For 102 years she filled her life with family, friends, faith and fun. Loretta had a strong bond with her three sisters (collectively referred to as the James Gang), who lovingly called her Ducky, a nickname that will endure forever. Ducky carried a big heart with room enough for everyone who loved her. She had two loving husbands; Ab Guerrini and Dave Shumake. Both men passed early in their lives, yet Loretta remained a treasured member of their families, remaining close to them and cherishing the special bonds they shared. Loretta had a special way of connecting with people and created a home where everyone felt welcome. She had a gift for making friends and neighbors feel like they were part of the family. That love was on full display up until her final moments.

Loretta was an active member of the Sumner community. She was raised in the Kelly Lake area, had her first job as a teenager working behind the local drug store counter as a “soda jerk”, and graduated from Sumner High School, class of 1942. Later she worked at City Hall and retired as the City Clerk. She lived in her Sumner home for 75 years. In 1960 she and her girlfriends started the Ki-Hi-Wa-Hees; a social club that created lasting friendships and one famous cookbook!

Loretta cherished the role of grandmother. The love she shared with her grandchildren filled her heart with happiness and pride. That love was not limited to her grandchildren but to dozens of others that proudly called her Grandma Ducky. All that experienced her love will forever find comfort in the memories of time spent with her. 

She often displayed signs of FOMO (fear of missing out), when it involved a Mariner’s or Seahawk’s party, a grandchild’s sporting event, family gatherings or a trip to Palm Springs. Of course she was always welcomed, especially when she brought her famous pies or cobblers!

She leaves behind a fabled legacy of kindness, generosity and inspiration that will live on in all the lives she touched. She showed us that a life measured in years is remarkable, but a life measured in love is truly extraordinary.

A graveside service will be held at the Sumner Cemetery on Monday, October 12, 2026, at 11:00 am. Following that service, a Celebration of Life will be held at the Farm 12 Event Center in Puyallup (Daffodil Entrance), starting at approximately 12:30 to 4:00 p.m.

Loretta financially supported many causes. However, 2 of her favorites were the Step by Step Program in Puyallup and the Sumner Food Bank, if you wish to make a remembrance donation. The family is grateful to all the friends that supported them through her last few weeks, and a special shout-out to Nicole at Arcadia Home Care and the wonderful, caring staff at Envision Hospice.