Obituary
Duane Sautter entered into the presence of his Lord and Savior fully healed on Friday, November 26th, 2021, after a hard-fought battle with blood cancer. He was born in Toledo, OH on October 6, 1951, to Leroy and Geraldine Sautter. He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Sharon Sautter (Shabaz) of Granger, IN, his children Christopher and Tasha Sautter (Schoenauer) of Granger, IN, Matthew & Jennifer Sautter (Worthington) of Sikeston, MO, Danielle Sautter of South Bend, IN, his four grandchildren, Noah, Caroline, Emma, and Liam, and his brother Bruce and Cheryl Sautter of Solon, OH and many others.
He attended the University of Toledo for both his undergraduate degree and master’s degree in Business Administration. Throughout his professional career, he used his effectual negotiating skills, strong moral ethic, and conscientious attention to quality. He invested thirty years at AM General, retiring as the Senior Manager of Procurement on the Hummer line.
He was called PA by his four grandchildren and known for his unique sense of humor or breaking out into spontaneous songs like, “Blueberry Hill” and “Cotton Fields” by Creedence Clearwater Revival. Duane’s robust laugh is most memorable. His booming voice in the church choir at Calvary Assembly of God, in early morning wake-up song sessions for his children, and as a professional Santa Clause for both paying patrons and family will not soon be forgotten. To his children, he taught them the meaning of good work ethic, the importance of prioritizing family, and humility that comes from a transformed life in Christ. He was a strong, protecting, and loving father as well as a faithful husband. He loved Sharon in ways that only grew deeper and truer with time. They adventured together all over the country in a little red convertible mustang and on cruise ships alike making many unforgettable memories.
For the last seven years Duane dealt with MDS, an incurable blood cancer. As his body diminished in strength, his spirit grew in faith. He spoke unabashedly about the transformation that took place at age 26 when he was introduced to Jesus, found forgiveness of his sins, and made Jesus Lord of his life. Whether it was during a transfusion appointment or at a restaurant, he encouraged and prayed for people around him wherever he was. When engaging in conversation, it wouldn’t be long before he was easily and naturally talking about Jesus, his conversion, and his personal prayer life. He often spoke of how Jesus and many angels met with him in the toughest moments and in the many sleepless nights. People were inspired by Duane’s expressed bold faith and his deep love and concern for others. He will be remembered as genuine, jovial, and faith filled. He lives on in those who he loved the most.
A celebration of life service will be held Monday December 13 at Gospel City Church at 52277 Hickory Road Granger, IN 46530. Visitation will be at 10am with the service following at 11am. A meal will be provided for all attendees following the service. The celebration of life will be livestreamed on Sharon’s Facebook page for all virtual attendees.
The family welcomes donations to two non-profit ministries that were dear to Duane’s heart.
- Give Hope 2 Kids: Jason Furrow P.O. Box 221 Waconia, MN 55387
- Chi Alpha Christian Fellowship: Attn: Tim Kern at 2821 Edison Road South Bend, IN 46615.
Service
52277 Hickory Road Granger, IN 46530
Visitation
52277 Hickory Road Granger, IN 46530
Jeff & Heather Grasl
We have many happy memories of the man we all have loved. It is refreshing to read this tribute from those closest to him. Our lives would have been even more blessed had we lived closer to you. We are planning on attending the memorial service Monday. Our love to you all.
Carolyn