James Leo Sutterer

Jim Sutterer Obituary A Beacon of Light Extinguished James (Jim) Sutterer, a man who knew no strangers and whose smile could light up a room, passed away peacefully on September 25th, 2024 at the age of 76 with family by his side. A Veteran of the Vietnam War, Jim served his country with courage and determination. He returned with an Army Commendation Medal, Bronze Star, Purple Heart, and Good Conduct Medal, and suffered the loss of a dear friend, yet his spirit remained unbroken. Jim was a member of V.F.W. #4282, American Legion #133, AmVets #94, River Hills Eagles Aerie #4034, Little Saline Club, Knights of Columbus Council #1263 and the Perry Dice Boat Club. A lover of horseback riding, boating, ATVs, convertible and motorcycle rides, and adventures with best friends, he lived life to the fullest. Always standing by his side, his loving bride, Velma. A dedicated public servant, Jim served as County Commissioner for 12 years and spent much time with comrades at the Missouri National Veterans' Memorial. His strong work ethic and unwavering determination from childhood led him and his brothers, with little resources, to build a shop that still stands today. It bonded them and formed lifelong friendships, here they would build bikes from scrap and fix up old cars, including his pride and joy, "Wagon", his '55 Chevy. He was always tinkering and devoted his time to the greater joys in life. A devoted father and grandfather, he cherished his family and friends with equal measure. He always showed up for his grandkids and never turned away an opportunity to spend time with them. A devout Catholic, and member of St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church he found solace in his faith and was often seen enjoying life's simple pleasures, like camping and piddling around his farms. Jim had a heart of gold and was always there to lend a helping hand. A man of many talents, Jim quickly became skilled at anything he decided to take up. His adventurous spirit led him on countless expeditions. He also loved spending time with friends and family with his trusty steed by his side. He showed us that you can do anything that you set your mind to, no matter the circumstances. Jim faced many trials in his time with us that helped mold him into the man we all grew to love. With those trials, came grit and independence, which was an inspiration to anyone who knew him. Jim's life was a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. "Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him". Jim is survived by his loving and care giving wife, Velma; his children, Chad (Liz) Sutterer, Kim (Austin) Elder, and Kurt (Ashley) Sutterer; his grandchildren Kennedy, Brooke, and Willow Sutterer, Trenton and Katelyn Elder, Grady and Bo Sutterer. He is also survived by his siblings; Barb Klump, Ginny (Stanley) Schweiss, Tom Sutterer and Denny (Joyce) Sutterer, sister-in-law; Joan Sutterer. He is preceded in death by his parents Ralph and Elfrieda (Buchheit) Sutterer, his brother Rick Sutterer, and brother-in-law Allen Klump. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. As the saying goes, "To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord." May Jim live eternally in peace, knowing that his legacy of kindness, courage, and unwavering spirit will live on. Please pray for the repose of his soul. Funeral Arrangements: Visitation will be from 3:00 pm to 8:00 pm on Thursday, October 3, 2024 and will continue from 9:00 am to 9:45 am on Friday, October 4, 2024 at St. Vincent De Paul Catholic in Perryville. Funeral Mass will be at 10:00 am Friday, October 4, 2024 at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church in Perryville with Rev. Joe Geders C.M. officiating. Burial will be at Mount Hope Cemetery in Perryville. Military Honors will be provided by Delta Team and VFW Post #4282. Memorial contributions may be given to Missouri's National Veterans Memorial or the Ladies Of Charity Food Pantry. Online condolences may be made at www.fordandyoungfuneralhome.com. Ford & Young Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

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James Leo Sutterer

August 11, 1948 - September 25, 2024