Donald J. Zutter

Donald J. Zutter, a beacon of kindness and generosity, passed away at 7:03 pm on Tuesday, March 11, 2025, in his home. Born on February 16, 1929, in Oconto, Wisconsin, to the late August H. and Mathilda (Topel) Zutter, Don's life was a testament to faith, family, and service.
Don's journey began in the small town of Oconto, where he was raised alongside his siblings Elizabeth, Doris, Mildred, Helen Jane, John, Alfred, and William, all of whom predeceased him. His early years were filled with the warmth of a close-knit family, a value he carried throughout his life.
On October 11, 1952, Don married the love of his life, Caryol F. (Morris) Zutter, with whom he shared a beautiful and enduring partnership until her passing on June 14, 2008. Together, they raised a family that would become Don's pride and joy: children Beth (Don) Roberts, Bruce (Laura) Zutter, and Andrew (Julie Koepele) Zutter. He was a cherished grandfather to Andrew (Aleesa) Zutter, Benjamin (Cassie) Zutter, Leah (Mark) Fleming, Allyson (Nate) Lax, Anthony (Megan) Roberts, and Sarah (Evie Taylor) Zutter, and a great-grandfather to Anna Leigh, Anderson, Landon, Ashley, Octavia, Zander, Myles, and Emma.
Don's professional life was marked by dedication and excellence. He served as a Product Assurance Engineer at Bendix Corporation, where he retired in 1990 after 38 years of service. His work ethic and innovative spirit were evident in his knack for fixing anything with a bit of duct tape, earning him the affectionate title of the family's go-to handyman.
Beyond his professional achievements, Don was an active and beloved member of Zion Church. He took on many leadership roles, visited homebound members, and exemplified what it means to live a faith-filled life. His commitment to his church community was unwavering, and his presence will be deeply missed.
Don lived in the same home for nearly 70 years and was blessed by the many neighbors he came to know and love. He kept in contact with all of them even the neighbors who moved out of state.
An avid bowler, Don also found joy in the simple pleasures of life. He and Caryol shared a passion for travel, exploring destinations such as Alaska and Panama. Their adventures included a memorable cruise that, due to Don's engineering background, naturally included a visit to the Panama Canal.
Family was the cornerstone of Don's world. He relished in bringing everyone together, creating cherished memories at Houghton Lake in Michigan with his children and later at Kentucky Lake with his grandchildren. His selfless, calm, and caring nature made these gatherings a source of joy and comfort for all who were lucky enough to be a part of them.
If one word could define Don, it would be "kind." He was the most kind man, always thinking of others before himself. His legacy of kindness and generosity will continue to inspire those who knew him.
Funeral Services for Donald J. Zutter will be held at 11 am on Monday, March 17, 2025, in Zion Community Church, 211 South St. Peter St., South Bend, IN 46617. Friends and family are invited to gather at 10 am before the service. Entombment will follow at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens.
Donald J. Zutter's kind spirit, generous heart, and unwavering faith have left an indelible mark on this world, and he will be profoundly missed. Memorial Contributions may be made to Zion Community Church or the Center for Hospice.
Condolences for the family may be made at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com.
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