Cliff L. Sutton, 84, of Flandreau, SD, passed away on Friday, February 27, 2026 at Pipestone Hospice House. A memorial service will be held at 2:00 PM on Saturday, March 7, 2026 at Flandreau United Methodist Church. The family will be present for visitation one hour prior to the memorial service.
Clifton Lynn Sutton was born in Watertown, South Dakota, on September 26, 1941, to parents Faye and Maxine (Beck) Sutton. He was the oldest of five children.
He graduated from Willow Lake High School in Willow Lake, South Dakota, went on to earn his bachelor’s degree at Huron College, and later completed his master’s degree at South Dakota State University.
He was united in marriage to the love of his life, Judy Sondergaard, on December 25, 1962, in Willow Lake. Together, they made their home in Flandreau, SD, where they raised their three children.
Cliff began his teaching career as a business teacher in Oldham, SD, where he spent three years. He then continued his career in Flandreau, dedicating 34 years to the school district. Throughout his time there, he was deeply involved in school activities. He served as yearbook advisor, representative of teacher negotiations, scorekeeper at basketball games, and he participated in nearly every committee the school had to offer. His wife fondly referred to him as the “Committee Man.”
Throughout his life he enjoyed bowling, playing golf, and supporting his community by attending school athletic events. He was an avid and loyal fan of the Pittsburgh Steelers, proudly cheering them on each season.
He is survived by his wife, Judy Sutton; children, Wendy Ulrich, David (Nichol) Sutton, and Holly Kroschel; grandchildren, Jadyn Ulrich, Lonnie Sutton, Eli Sutton, Ethan Sutton, Erik Sutton, Aidan Kroschel, and Connor Kroschel; siblings, Jerry (Minnie) Sutton, Carol Morgan, Gary (Banjo) Sutton, and Janet Erickson; as well as many other friends and family members in the community.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Faye and Maxine (Beck) Sutton; and brother-in-law, Randy Erickson.
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