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Connie Marie (Guttau) Sudmann, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on July 24, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. Known for her unwavering faith in Jesus Christ, servant heart, selfless love, and deep devotion to her family.
Born on March 15, 1944, Connie was the eldest daughter of Raymond and Arlue Guttau of Treynor, Iowa. She graduated from Treynor High School in 1962. It was during these years that she met the love of her life, Freddie Sudmann. The two were united in marriage on August 16, 1963, and together they built a beautiful life and family, raising seven children on a farm just outside of Treynor.
Connie was an active and faithful member of Living Hope Community Church, where she served for many years in the church nursery and was a passionate organizer of Operation Christmas Child. Her life was a reflection of her faith - marked by generosity, humility, and a heart always willing to serve others.
A true family woman, Connie found her greatest joy in the time spent with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She cherished every moment with her twelve grandchildren, always making them feel special and deeply loved.
Connie had a love for life's simple joys - she was an avid baker who delighted in making her grandchildren's favorite meals and homemade desserts. Her beautiful garden was a source of pride and peace, filled with vibrant flowers that mirrored the beauty she brought into the lives of others. She also had a special fondness for peacocks, a love inspired by her son Darrin, and they became a unique symbol of her gentle spirit and inner beauty.
Connie is survived by her husband of almost 62 years, Freddie Sudmann, children, Delynn (Brenda) Sudmann, Derrick (Nancy) Sudmann, Danette (Jim) Blackledge, Dallas (Cynthia) Sudmann, Doreen (Tim) James, and Daniel Sudmann; grandchildren: Gabel (Rachel) Sudmann, Kyle Blackledge, Taylor Sudmann, Guy (Abby) Sudmann, Kaylie (Taylor) Matuszeski, Konnor Sudmann, Noel James, Jozie (Ethan) Erhardt, Ashley Sudmann, Noah James, Olivia Sudmann, and Aubree James; great-grandchildren, Rory Sudmann and Jasper Erhardt; siblings, Rhonda Knudsen, Jan (Phil) Waggoner, and Joan (Mike) Kalstrup; many nieces and nephews, other family members and friends.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved son Darrin, brothers-in-law Roger Knudsen, Herb Sudmann, and sister-in-law Selma Andersen.
Connie left a legacy of kindness, quiet strength, attentive listening, and tireless dedication - a gentle presence who led with love, served humbly, and uplifted others through her steady grace. Rooted deeply in her faith in Jesus Christ, she touched countless lives with compassion and quiet encouragement. Though she will be deeply missed, her spirit lives on in the hearts of those she loved, and her faithful witness will never be forgotten.
Visitation will be held from 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM at Living Hope Community Church on Sunday, July 27, 2025. Funeral Service will be held at 10:00 AM at Living Hope Community Church on Monday, July 28, 2025. Interment is in the Zion Congregational Church Cemetery. The family will direct memorials in Connie's honor.
1221 North 16th Street, Council Bluffs, IA 51501-0143
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