Joseph H. "Joe" Suther, Sr.

Joseph H. "Joe" Suther, Sr., a beloved father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully at his home in Williamsburg, Kansas, on June 21, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Born on December 25, 1933, in Axtell, Kansas, the son of Fred and Freda (Tegeler) Suther, Joe dedicated his life to service, both in his professional career and through his commitment to family and community.

A graduate of Blaine Rural High School, class of 1952, Joe served his country for twenty years in the United States Air Force, where he achieved the rank of Technical Sergeant and worked as a Radar and Measuring Equipment Technician. He was stationed in Africa and Germany during his time of service. Following his military service, Joe embarked on a successful career, beginning at Berico Industries in Waverly, where he served as a grain dryer electrician, and service manager from 1974 to 1985. He then contributed his skills at Osawatomie State Hospital from 1986 to 1999 and continued to work part-time as an electrician and power plant operator until 2014.

Joe was united in marriage to Carol Lee "Ginger" Brownlee on April 28, 1956, at Forbes Air Force Base in Topeka, Kansas. Together, they shared a life filled with love and adventure until her passing on August 20, 2020. Joe resided in Williamsburg, Kansas, since 1974, moving from Colorado, where he cultivated a passion for gardening, mowing, and traveling to Branson and Colorado. He cherished the joy of family gatherings, particularly enjoying dances and time spent with his children and grandchildren.

He is survived by his son Rick Suther of Ottawa, Kansas; daughter Regina "Jean" Roecker (Dale) of Williamsburg, Kansas; son Joe Suther (Sandi) of Princeton, Kansas; daughter Patti Moore (Curt) of Ottawa, Kansas; son Jack Suther of Las Vegas, Nevada; and son Robert Suther (Jeanette) of Hutchinson, Kansas. Joe was a proud grandfather to twenty-one grandchildren and many great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister Vera Strunk of Wamego, Kansas; sister Betty Suther OSJ of Concordia, Kansas; sister Eleanor Suther OSB of Atchison, Kansas; sister-in-law Joy Mitchell of Cincinnati, Ohio; and brother-in-law Alvin Gerstner of Topeka, Kansas.

Along with his wife, Joe is preceded in death by his parents; brothers Ralph Suther and Jerry Suther; and sister Mary Gerstner.

Joe's proudest accomplishments included being a lifelong member of Sacred Heart Church in Ottawa, a life member of the 3rd Degree of the Knights of Columbus, and an active member of the American Legion Waverly Post 119. His legacy of service and dedication will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.

Rosary will be said 9:30am, at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Ottawa, Kansas, on Friday, June 27, 2025, followed by a Vigil for the Deceased at 10am and Mass of Christian Burial at 11am. Joe will be laid to rest at Mt. Calvary Cemetery in Ottawa at 12:00 pm.

Joe Suther's gentle spirit, commitment to family, and enduring legacy of service will forever remain in the hearts of those he touched.

The family suggests memorial contributions to Sacred Heart Church c/o Dengel & Son Mortuary, 235 S. Hickory, Ottawa, Kansas 66067.

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