Richard Sutton

Richard Melford Sutton, 84, of Charlevoix, passed away peacefully on Friday, June 30, 2023 at Grandvue Medical Care Facility.  He was born on August 24, 1938, in Charlevoix, the son of Rockliff and Arvilla (Yahr) Sutton.

Richard was a life long resident of Charlevoix, and spent most of his working life contributing to its’ beauty through his craftsmanship.  After high school, he went to the Straits of Mackinac to aid in the construction of the Mackinac Bridge, which was something he was quite proud of.  Upon completion, he returned to Charlevoix and worked at Kit-Carson Lumber for many years, while also doing carpentry work on the side.  After ‘retirement’, he built several more houses in the area including his children’s houses.

Richard loved spending time with his family more than anything.  He seldom missed one of his grandchildren’s events no matter what they were doing.  He also enjoyed fishing the deep blue waters of Lake Michigan for salmon and trout, as well as playing cards with family and friends.

On June 23, 1962, at the Charlevoix Community Church of God, Richard married the love his life, Jean (Denny) Sutton, who survives.  Also surviving are three children, Richard Sutton (Tammi LaFave) of Charlevoix, Debbie (Randy) Wurst of Charlevoix, and Brenda (Stuart) Wright of Charlevoix; two brothers, Don (Acelia) Sutton of Petoskey and Arthur (Pat) Sutton of Charlevoix; two sisters, Wanda Barraw of Central Lake and Donna (Jerry) Himebauch of Alaska; six grandchildren, Devin Sutton, Ben Sutton, Shelby Wurst, Sydney Wurst, Cole Wright, and Abbey Wright; special friend Rick Wells; Lynn Sutton; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, R.M. and Billy Sutton; and his brother, Andrew Sutton.

A celebration of Richard’s Life will take place on Sunday, July 9, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Charlevoix Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Grandvue Medical Care Facility.

Arrangements are in the care of the Charlevoix Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes.  Please sign his online guestbook at www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com