Ricky Bert Sutter was born on January 26, 1949, in Des Moines, Iowa, to Rodney and Veda (Ersland) Sutter, joining sister Roxann and brother Sam. He was baptized and later confirmed in Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Slater. Rick graduated from Ballard Community High School in May 1967.

In the fall of 1968, Rick moved to Spearfish to attend Black Hills State College, beginning a lifelong connection to western South Dakota. On May 29, 1971, he married Marilyn Johnson in Wall and were blessed with three daughters, Stephenie (1974), Jill (1977) and Tara (1986). He later entered the Catholic faith, being baptized and confirmed in May 1984.

Rick was an outstanding athlete. Although he did not follow in his father’s footsteps playing baseball, he excelled in every sport he attempted, especially football and basketball. He had a love of sports that he passed down to his daughters and grandchildren. He spent countless hours attending his daughter’s games and school activities.

Rick was a man who loved the outdoors. Numerous summers were spent camping and boating with family and friends. He was an experienced slalom skier and taught dozens of kids to waterski. His other hobbies included deer hunting where many hunting seasons were spent at “hunting camp,” where more memories were made and stories told than deer brought home. He also enjoyed 4-wheeling, golfing, and had a love for photography. Multiple home construction projects were completed with friends and family where one usually worked while the others “supervised.” All of these interests reflect both his adventurous spirit and his hands‑on nature.

Later in life he struck up a relationship with Carolynn Anderson where they went on many adventures including traveling and camping. His love of sports and family continued with attending the grandchildren’s various sporting events and school activities.

Rick dedicated much of his life to serving his community. He spent 38 years with the Wall Fire Department, retiring in 2017. He was also on the EMT crew and served 40 years with the Wall Ambulance Service, retiring in 2019. In 1977, Rick began working for Golden West where he completed 34 years of service.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Sam; his sister, Roxann; and his brother‑in‑law, Reno Kellogg.

Rick is survived by his daughters Stephenie (Andy) Gay of Piedmont, Jill (Jason) Leonard of Wall, and Tara (Ty) Norman of Hayes; his grandchildren Riley Gay, Ryan Gay, Hayden Norman, Jordan Leonard, Justin Leonard, and Carlie Norman; his special friend Carolynn Anderson, her daughters and their families; and a host of nieces and nephews, other relatives, and friends.

Rick’s life was marked by service, loyalty, and a deep love for his family and community. His presence will be missed by all who knew him.

We would like to thank the phenomenal staff at Kadoka Nursing Home. Every one of you treated Dad like he was part of your family. A very special thank you to Jozelle - you will always have a special place in Dad’s heart.

Cards and memorials can be sent to PO Box 26, Wall, SD 57790.

Visitation will be held 5-7 with a prayer service at 7 p.m. Thursday, January 22, 2026 at St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Wall.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held 10:00 a.m. Friday, January 23, 2026 at St. Patrick's Catholic Church in Wall with Father Jonathan Dillon as celebrant.

Interment will follow at the Wall Cemetery.