Obituary of Jack Sautter (Lived from April 6th, 1930 to January 23rd, 2016)
On April 6, 1930, Jack Sautter was born in the Milwaukee Railroad town of Piedmont, Mt. to Benjamin (Shorty) and Eliza Sautter. At age 6, Jack moved to Townsend, Mt. where his Dad (Shorty) bought the Rex Theatre and Jack began school at Cecelia Hazelton grade school. Soon thereafter, Jack enjoyed fishing and hunting with his Dad and playing baseball in the back yard. At age 15, Jack became a Broadwater Bulldog avidly playing football and basketball and lettering in B Club. All topped of by singing in Chorus. What a Voice!! Finishing high school in 1948, Jack attended Bozeman University and then in short order followed his passion for baseball. In 1951, Jack was drafted by the York, Pa. White Roses professional baseball team as a pitcher. Jack (aka Hollywood) pitched his first professional win on May 15, 1951. In 1952, with the help of Tom Kieckbusch and Lucy Lemon, Jack met the red headed Canadian, known as Doreen McIntosh. Shortly thereafter (Oct 1, 1953), Jack married Doreen Margaret McIntosh (a young nurse at Broadwater Hospital). Jack continued working at the Rex Theatre and Broadwater Courthouse.
The years that followed would bring four children: Gregg (1954), Susan (1956), Jackie (1959) and John (1961). Jack’s family would now be taught firsthand the humble commitment to God, family, friends, community and work ethic.
Jack’s commitments to Community were substantial and lasting Church, weddings, funerals, little league baseball, schools, fire department, ski area, lakes and streams, cemetery and Indian Creek pond to name a few. All with the help of his many dedicated friends! So many and too much time passed to name all (Jack thanks you).
Complementing the above was a passion and respect for baseball, hunting, fishing, camping, skiing, horse racing, and of course “Singing”. If not busy enough, in 1955, Jack completed Red Cross Lifeguard training in the cold waters of Couer D’Alene Lake. Soon, Jack began teaching local children to swim in the Missouri river (a half mile down stream from his current home). If not working at the Rex Theatre, the Court house, swim instruction and now part time rural postal carrier wasn’t enough, Jack always made time for family and friends to hunt elk, deer and blue grouse on Grassy Mountain (The Lone Tree, Saltlick 13, Buck Pass). The Missouri River, Deep Creek and Sixteen Mile delivered rainbows on a yellow fizzle and rattlesnakes for all. The 1950’s gave Jack and brother Bud the Copper League Baseball clubs. Baseball at its best! Jack’s team (Earl, Dave & others) the “Helena Wranglers” win the league in 1958. During the 60’s, 70’s and 80’s, Jack coached his sons and hundreds of others in baseball and his daughters in basketball and track. Jack, himself, avidly continued playing softball and basketball in the local leagues into his late fifty’s.
The mid 1980tys brings retirement, the sale of the Rex Theatre, more commitment to God, family and community and of course hunting, fishing and travel. Jack sang for some 200 funerals, weddings and anniversaries.
In his age 80’s: Jack’s commitment to his wife, Doreen, was paramount as well as his pride in his property and yard. At age 85, with the undiagnosed cancer wearing, Jack cared 24/7 for his ailing wife and cleared snow one week before his passing.
Thru Jack’s life and career these were some of the community services he was involved with. Jack was a member of the Townsend School Board: 12 Years (updated the track and football field and new player equipment), involved with and was a Little League Baseball Coach for 20 years, Grassy Mountain Ski Founder (with Tony, Glenn, Ray, Cactus and many others), served on the Lake and Stream Committee, the Deep Creek Cemetery Board. He was also involved with the Rural Fire Department for 20 years and the U.S. Ski Patrol.
Some of the honors Jack received were the Distinguished Service Award by Broadwater Jaycees, Special Achievement Award (1983) by United States Postal Service, Twenty Years of Dedicated Service by Townsend Volunteer Fire Department, Fire Service Training (1974) by Montana State Board of Education, Association of Professional Baseball Players of America (Life Member), Helena Sports Hall of Fame, (Inducted 2015), Montana Officials Association Football Referee (1956 – 1971).
Jack was preceded in death by his parents, Benjamin and Eliza Sautter; brothers, Gene and Bud Sautter; sister, Shirley Diamond; sister-in-law, Jeannie Sautter, brother-in-law, Jack Diamond; niece3s, Debbie Sautter, and Renee Rodgers-Garrett and nephew, Daniel (Boone) Davy.
Jack is survived by his wife, Doreen Sautter, of Townsend; sons, Gregg (Karen) Sautter,and John Sautter; daughters, Susan (Gary) Ritter and Jackie Ruple; grandchildren, Jade, Kyla, Ashlyn, Carson, Jeffrey, Danielle and Drew Savage, Casey and Kelly; great grandchildren, Ellie and Riley; sister-in-law Shirley Sautter; niece, Cheryl (Dick) Garrett, Janice (Dan) Stokes, Sheri Sautter, Darla Sautter; nephew, Don Sautter, Steve (Jean) Sautter, Ben (Helen) Sautter and Karen (Bill) Scheler.
The family will receive friends on Friday, February 5, 2016 from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home in Townsend. A memorial service celebrating Jack’s life will be held 1:00 p.m. Saturday, February 6, 2016 at Trailhead Christian Fellowship Church in Townsend. A reception will follow in the social center of the church. Interment will take place at Deep Creek Cemetery approximately 3:30 p.m. Memorials are suggested to the Deep Creek Cemetery Association, Townsend Little League Baseball Program, or to the Townsend Volunteer Fire Department.
Service Schedule
Family Receiving Friends
4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Friday February 5, 2016
Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
212 Broadway Street
Townsend, Montana 59644
Memorial Service
1:00 p.m.
Saturday February 6, 2016
Trailhead Christian Fellowship Church
Townsend, Montana 59644
Reception
Immediately following the memorial service
Saturday February 6, 2016
Social Center of the church
,
Burial
Approximately 3:30 p.m.
Saturday February 6, 2016
Deep Creek Cemetery
Townsend, Montana 59644
Service Schedule
Family Receiving Friends
4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Friday February 5, 2016
Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home
212 Broadway Street
Townsend, Montana 59644
Memorial Service
1:00 p.m.
Saturday February 6, 2016
Trailhead Christian Fellowship Church
Townsend, Montana 59644
Reception
Immediately following the memorial service
Saturday February 6, 2016
Social Center of the church
,
Burial
Approximately 3:30 p.m.
Saturday February 6, 2016
Deep Creek Cemetery
Townsend, Montana 59644
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Martin & Doris Mingay says
We were so sorry to hear about the passing of Jack. His joyful laughter will be so greatly missed. Our thoughts and prayers will be with the family. Martin & Doris Mingay
Clayton & Sheryl McElravy says
We are so sorry to hear of the passing of Jack. He always had a big smile. He was Clayton’s Babe Ruth coach when Clayton was 13 years old. So sorry we won’t be able to attend the service. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. Clayton & Sheryl McElravy
April says
Uncle Jack, thanks for the memories! I will forever remember the joy of your company, your stories, your bursting out in song at any given time, all the times you let us come out to fish at the house and just all the pleasant visits we’ve had over the years. I’m so glad we all had such a wonderful visit over the summer. Doreen, Gregg, Susan, Jackie, John and families. I’m so sorry. Love you all and my thoughts have been with you daily.
Thane Toney says
One of my fondest memories of Jack go way back (70’s) to when he would spend his own money to bring down a 50 foot Christmas tree from our neighboring hills to Broadway and hoist it up in front of the REX Theater and decorate and light it up for the whole town to see. Then on Christmas weekend, he would host a free Christmas movie, generally always Disney, for all the children of Broadwater County to view and enjoy, including free popcorn. Then when the movie was out, there he was atop the Townsend Fire Truck, AKA Santa Claus and handed out free candy to all the Children from town, or whomever was there. A truly amazing man. My condolences to family and friends. He gave himself freely to the Community for many, years.
Jay Kitt says
Jack gave us swimming lessons in the cold cold Missouri river. My mom worked evenings at the Rex theater as did my sister. Rest in peace and thanks for all that you did for this community.
Cathlene Millay says
Blessed thoughts and prayers to the Sautter families. Jacks smile and big heart will truly be missed. You always knew when Jack was near as you would hear his laughter or he would be singing! There was nothing he would not do for the community and help with. If he could not, he would find someone that could. Rest in Peace Jack. God Bless
Laura & Grant Nagel says
So very sorry to hear of Jacks passing. He will be greatly missed, but his smile & laugh will be remembered by his many friend. The deer he shook his apple tree for each fall will no longer have their faithful friend. He truly touched many lives. May God Bless him in his fimal resting place.
Karen Scheler says
We were all so lucky to have Uncle Jack in our lives. There are so many memories I could never list, but all of them are of Uncle Jack laughing and singing all the while having fun at whatever we were doing. He taught all of us so many things. Uncle Jack was a man of faith and kindness. I will truly miss you.
Sherry and Ward says
My earliest memories of Jack were as swim instructor in the Missouri River…. The only formal lessons I ever received. Then the Rex theater, mail carrier, singing in a choir with him – and just a friendship of well over 50 years. We are saddened by his passing- and especially since we are away for the winter. But Doreen and all the Sautters are in our prayers. Truly a life well lived! Sherry and Ward Scoffield
Bill Upthegrove says
Jack, I hope you save the pew in front of you in heaven for me. I cannot sing, but I have always loved sitting in front of you in church and listening to your wonderful song.
Kevin says
Jack was someone that was truely respected in the Townsend community. He led by example and will be missed. Godspeed Jack.
Theresa Talsma says
I sat next to Jack for several years at the Nativity Nights choir at the Mormon Church – we always had lots of fun and I looked forward to singing and laughing with Jack each year. He was a very kind, humble, and caring gentleman. The world lost a true gem!
Mitchell Stocks says
A Townsend icon takes his place in heaven. You will be missed, Jack. Thoughts and prayers to all family members.
Dave and Betsy Riley says
Our thoughts and prayers to all of Jack’s family. Jack will truly be missed in the Townsend community.
Meredith Tobel Saylor says
Thinking of you Doreen and family in your time of sorrow. My Prayers go out to you.
God’s Blessing to you and yours.
Lois valentine says
I was sorry to learn of Jack’s passing Doreen. It was always a joy working with both of you at church. What a wonderful life he had. I’m sorry I am not able to attend his service, my prayers go out to you. Lois valentine
Art Graham says
So many thoughts, so many memories of this nice guy and true community servant. I will share my first memory and my last nearly 50 years apart. I first met and knew Jack when I was 11. We lived across the alley from his parents. Often our baseball landed in The flower/ vegetable garden, so we climbed the short wire fence, stealthily we thought, to retrieve our ball. One day Jack, who helped his parents daily, came to us with the ball. He said : ” I used to lose balls in people’s yards also. Just always try not to break the fence or the garden plants”. We said sheepishly “Okay”. And Jack’s reply: ” Thank you Son”. My last was in Missoula. Jack had lost at the horse races that day. He said: “My ponies didn’t run well today”. I remarked: ” I think the problem is that you did’t bet well today”. Then Jack’s great laugh and “You got that right Art”! That was Jack ..for his lifetime from beginning to end. The lesson he gave us all: “Everything is okay – just tender life with goodness, acceptance and a smile..and keep the song in your heart”. Jack Sautter: you are missed! R.I.P.
Cindy Kirksey Fretheim says
I wish to express sincere sympathy to the Sautter family on behalf of myself and my mother, Ann Kirksey. There are so many wonderful memories of Jack. I loved going to the Christmas movies at the Rex (getting out of school for an afternoon to go!) and the huge Christmas tree in front of the theater. And Jack’s amazing voice… he sang for so many events through the years, and my mom was his accompanist on many of those occasions. Ann always enjoyed working with Jack on music. I’m sorry that we won’t be able to attend Jack’s service, but our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. God Bless and comfort you. We know that Jack is now singing with the Heavenly choir!
Swede & Kelly Anderson says
Sorry to hear of Jack’s passing. Our thoughts and prayers to Doreen and family. We are sure that Jack’s beautiful singing voice will be heard in heaven. A good community oriented man.
Kerry & Carol Pottruff says
Doreen, Gregg, Susan, Jackie, & John, as well as Steve, Karen, & Ben and all your families:
We are truly sorry to hear about Jack. It hasn’t been that long ago he was at our house, helping us. He mentioned highlighting the influence our Dad had on Townsend youth. That goes double for Jack. Now, it seems like we spent every waking moment across the street at the ball diamonds for years. And not just playing; I still look at athletes/sports through eyes educated by Jack. “Don’t pick on the player, pick on the position.” “Show sportsmanship and respect whether you win or lose.” Jack had a great influence on many in many different areas. Words don’t seem to do justice.
Richard Ragen says
Dear Doreen, Gregg, Susan, Jackie, John, and relatives,
I wish to express my deepest sympathy for Jack’s passing. He was one of the most beloved, kind men I have ever had the privilege of knowing. I last saw Jack & Doreen at my Aunt Delores Anderson’s funeral a few short years ago at the Cathedral in Helena. What a wonderful surprise. I didn’t even know they knew each other. He was a very popular part of several Ragen family weddings and funerals with his angelic voice. I can’t think of any single person who has given more of theirself to a community. He will be missed.
Love to all,
Richard
Kay Ragen & Family says
To the family of Jack,
Our family was always involved with Jack with sports and the theatre. We will all miss him very much.
Chris and Michele Christensen says
Words cannot express the feelings of loss that we have experienced since hearing of Jack’s passing. He became a friend through the school board service that he performed and was instrumental in hiring Chris to the teaching staff at Townsend. He touched our lives in many ways but will be remembered for his wonderful, rich, baritone voice that he would share at the drop of a hat. He loved the same kind of music that we did and always sent tingling chills up our back when he performed. He did a lot for our community and was always a welcome, smiling face wherever he went. If we were home now, we would give Doreen a big hug and express our deepest and most sincere regret for all of our loss. May the Lord lift you Doreen and bless you with a knowledge that Jack is doing well where he is, preparing the way for all his loved ones.