Sumner council member, former Pierce County firefighter dies. ‘He was Sumner.’
Sumner City Council member Greg Reinke was found dead Monday evening at his home, according to the city.
Carmen Palmer, spokesperson for the city, told The News Tribune city administrator Jason Wilson got a phone call late Monday night informing him of Reinke’s death. Most of the city learned of the news the next morning.
Palmer said she heard Reinke died from natural causes.
Reinke was a captain for East Pierce Fire & Rescue. He had also served at the Sumner Fire Department, according to Sumner police on Facebook. He retired in 2019 after 37 years of service.
Palmer said Reinke was appointed to a vacant council seat just over two years ago. He ran in the fall 2025 election and was elected.
Sumner mayor Carla Bowman wrote in the city’s newsletter that Reinke’s death is a great loss for the city.
“In government, we talk about policies and plans and laws, but really, the heart of everything we do is people. And, Greg was one of the best. He was Sumner,” she wrote. “He knew everybody and showed up for every meeting and gathering. He was social without the media, and we were all the better for it.”
Bowman said Reinke learned municipal budgeting and land-use issues as council member.
“He represented us at the Association of Washington Cities meetings and on Pierce County Regional Council. And he always drove the antique Kenworth in parades, waving and running that siren,” she wrote.
Bowman said she knew Reinke would walk around the city, saying hi to everyone whether he knew them or not. She asks that people hold his family, friends and neighbors in their hearts. The Sumner PD post said his son Christian works for Central Pierce Fire & Rescue, and his son Matt works for East Pierce Fire & Rescue.
“And if this news leaves you feeling a bit down and not sure what to do, I have one suggestion: go to Rhubarb Days this weekend,” she wrote. “Treat yourself to something to eat or drink. Chat with friends, neighbors and strangers. Let’s share Greg’s welcoming spirit in his memory and honor. I think that would make him laugh. So, I’ll be sure to see you downtown this weekend, because I know I would have seen Greg there.”
Bowman declared Sumner’s flags to be raised as half-staff in Reinke’s memory, according to Palmer.
This story was originally published June 17, 2026 at 12:41 PM.
