Christopher Lee Sutton, 61, passed away Wednesday, June 18, at his home, after being diagnosed with ALS in 2022.
A visitation service will be held on Friday, June 27th, 2025, at Lakeside Fellowship, 1121 W. Bridge Rd, Polk City, Iowa 50226 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. A funeral service will be held on Saturday June 28th, 2025, also at Lakeside Fellowship at 10:30 a.m. with a luncheon following provided by The White Oak Church ladies.
Chris was born June 10, 1964, in Newton, Iowa to Marlene (Luing) and Jim Sutton. He grew up in Mingo, Iowa graduating from Mingo High School in 1982.
Born with a passion for the land and everything it provides; Chris graduated from Iowa State University with a degree in Animal Science and remained a proud Cyclone fan throughout his life. He loved farming and cherished the time spent working side-by-side with his son, Kyle, who was not only his farming partner but a devoted caregiver in his final year. Chris found joy in the outdoors—whether he was hunting, fly fishing, tending to his bees, or riding snowmobiles through the mountains of Wyoming. He had a special love for Vail, Colorado, where the scenic mountains and hiking trails brought him peace and happiness. He enjoyed beekeeping, never hesitating to help others get started in the craft. In addition to being an avid outdoorsman, Chris was also a skilled craftsman. He enjoyed woodworking and restored a 1953 John Deere 70 tractor. He had a natural ability to care—for animals, for people, and for the land. Though he was reserved by nature, Chris had a deep love for his family, and he made sure everyone felt it. He supported his children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews with unwavering dedication in all their interests and endeavors. His love extended to his pets, Dottie, Bandit and Ginger, who entertained him daily. Chris was easygoing, kind, and sincere—traits that made him deeply loved by all who knew him. He was the most genuine man, living a life of quiet purpose and heartfelt actions. He fought with strength and grace until the very end. He will be profoundly missed by all who knew him.
Chris married Teresa Johnson in 1988, and together they had two children, Jessica and Kyle. On June 30, 2007, he married Kelly (Huxford) Sutton who faithfully took care of Chris since his diagnosis. They began attending White Oak Church in Elkhart, Iowa in 2012. Chris’s faith was very important to him. He served as a deacon and treasurer while attending services every Sunday. Kelly and Chris thank their church family for all the love and support they have provided. Chris shined the Light of Jesus to all he could reach.
Chris cherished his role of being a father. His children, Kyle and Jessica were his greatest source of pride and joy. He also treasured the time he was able to spend with his grandson, Dane.
Chris is survived by his wife, Kelly; son Kyle Sutton; daughter Jessica (Landon) Schuessler; grandson Dane Schuessler; parents Marlene Sutton and Jim (Tracey) Sutton; brother Randy (Kelly) Sutton; stepsister, Ashley (Kynzee) Olson; nieces and nephew, Hannah, Lindsay, Trevor Sutton, and Alex Drotzmman; as well as many great-nieces and great-nephews.
Memorials can be directed to White Oak Church in Elkhart, Iowa, or the ALS Association.
1121 W Bridge Rd.
Polk City, IA 50226
1121 W Bridge Rd.
Polk City, IA 50226