In Loving Memory
Gary Kenneth William Sutter
January 7, 1955 – December 31, 2025
Gary Kenneth William Sutter was born in Vegreville, Alberta on January 7, 1955. Gary started Grade 1 in Viking and 12 years later graduated from Viking High School. After high school he went to work for Northwestern Utilities in Edmonton. After a few years, he returned to Viking and started working for the Department of Highways. He was hired on full-time in 1986.
In 1996, Gary moved to Kelowna where he worked at Home Depot for 24 years. It was during this time in Kelowna with his partner, Margaret, that they spent lots of time with her children and grandchildren who still affectionately call him “Uncle Gary” and “Grandpa Gary.”
In 2020, he moved back to Sylvan Lake, and then in 2023, Gary moved back to Viking and made his home at the Vialta Lodge until his unexpected passing December 31, 2025.
Gary always loved ball and hockey. His mind was amazing with all the stats and knowledge of both his favourite sports. Growing up he played hockey and baseball in Viking and then as a young adult he continued on playing hockey with the Vegreville Jr. B Rangers and played ball with the Andrew A’s triple AAA ball team. In 1980, his Andrew A’s competed in Kamloops in the National Finals. Gary continued on with his love of sports by doing some coaching and scouting for a few years after he was finished playing. Gary was also his brothers,’ nephews,’ and nieces’ biggest fan. Always catching any of their games that he could and always the first to wish them a Happy Birthday on their special day.
He was baptized at the Viking United Church and attended the Vacation Bible School for many years each summer. He never spoke of religion over the years, but coincidentally he and Pastor Chris Koch came to Viking around the same time in 2023. Gary enjoyed his visits with Chris, always teasing him, calling him “The Farmer.”
Gary is survived by his mother Grace, his brothers Brian, Darryl, Duane, Brent, Richard, Ronald, their wives and families, along with his friend Madeline Brissard/Hoy. Gary was pre-deceased by his father Louie in February 2005.
The family would like to thank everyone for their kind donations to the Viking Health Centre, Kinsella God’s Acre Cemetery, and Viking Minor Hockey. Thank you for all the flowers, all the wonderful food, and visits. A special thank you to Pastor Chris, Jan Nordstrom, Bob Williams, Viking Funeral Services, Viking Health Centre, and the staff and residents of the Vialta Lodge.
