Eric Carl Sauter

Those who knew Eric Sauter remember him for his warmth, humor, and confident faith. Often described as brightening a room with his smile, Eric was enthusiastic, curious, and resourceful.

Eric Carl Sauter, age 65, passed away on October 5, 2025, after a battle with a rare and aggressive cancer. He spent his final days surrounded by his family, accompanied by his offbeat sense of humor and firm faith in Jesus Christ.

Born in Philadelphia on April 6, 1960 to Raymond Sauter and Lillian (née Valentine), Eric grew up in Wheaton and graduated from Wheaton North High School in 1978. It was during this time that he met his high school sweetheart, Marybeth Knudsen, who would become the love of his life.

Eric attended the University of Illinois, where he earned his Airframe and Power Plant license, reflecting a lifelong fascination with how things work. From an early age, he was interested in aeronautics, photography, scuba diving, racing, and any chance to tinker. He loved taking things apart, often successfully putting them back together again, and approached the world around him with curiosity and a sense of play.

Over the years, Eric worked in a wide range of roles and industries, including positions at DuPage Photo, Creative Whale, Wheaton Rental, ABS Graphics, Fenton Press, and Jack Morton. From teaching underwater photography to handling technology at a Dua Lipa concert, Eric excelled at reinventing himself and enjoyed learning all he could along the way. In 2014, he launched his own business specializing in event technology, a venture well-suited to his inventive mind and natural problem-solving instincts.

He loved a challenge and had a knack for finding solutions in even the most complicated scenarios. Friends and colleagues knew Eric could fix just about anything with a roll of gaff tape, some zip ties, and a grin. His was a true MacGyver spirit, and he saw every obstacle as an opportunity to create.

More than anything, Eric was a family man. He and Marybeth married on June 20, 1981 at Evangel Baptist Church in Wheaton and went on to share 44 years of marriage built on devotion, laughter, and partnership. Together, they enjoyed family camping, riding their tandem bicycle, hosting large family dinners, and grandkid sleepovers. They had four children within five years, and he went to great lengths to support them in all their endeavors. His life revolved around showing up for them in every season and every pursuit. From scouting events and youth group activities to summer reading challenges and coaching sports, Eric made a point to be there, and ensured his kids always knew their passions were worth celebrating. He believed deeply in demonstrating love and support through presence, not just words.

Together, Eric and Marybeth built a home that extended beyond their own family. Their open doors and open hearts made space for many others who needed care, stability, or simply a place to belong. Many have shared how they were made to feel like part of the Sauter family, and how Eric became a father figure during challenging chapters of their lives. His compassion was steady, his humor restorative, and his welcome unconditional.

In more recent years, Eric delighted in reading to his grandchildren, recording audiobooks, and following Formula One racing. He remained active in his church community and volunteered with People's Resource Center and Wheaton Christian Grammar School, where he loved lending his hands, heart, and enthusiasm wherever they were needed.

Among those carrying Eric's memory are his loving wife Marybeth; his devoted children, Carl (Melissa), Matt (Jess), Torrey (Holly), and Krista (Chris); and his cherished grandchildren, Lizzy, Caleb, Isaac, Ellie, Ava, Soren, and Niels. He is also survived by his brother, Raymond (Kay) Sauter, and sister, Karen (Paul) Wrobbel, along with countless other family members and friends who loved him deeply.

A visitation will be held on Friday, October 10, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM, with a celebration of life at 7:00 PM at Wellspring Alliance Church, 1766 S. Blanchard St., Wheaton, IL 60189. Arrangements by Hultgren Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations in Eric's memory be made to Wheaton Christian Grammar School's Scholarship Fund.

Eric's love, laughter, and faith will continue to guide all who had the joy of knowing him.