Donald Roger Sutter passed away at age 79 in Boise, Idaho on March 25, 2025. Donald was born in Modesto, California on March 23, 1946.
One of the original programmers, Don worked on the first computers ever built. He received his training in the United States Air Force, then started programming as a career at the tech giant company, Tektronix. He designed and implemented multiple software applications for the ever-changing computer industry at Tektronix until the late 80's, when he went into private consulting. His career changed course at the advent of the internet, where he became committed to the development of the open, global internet we see today. Up until the end of his life, he contributed to the world of programming, especially through open-source program language applications like Linux, internet applications, and all of the never-ending software updates and changes.
He was a man of character, charisma, and an overabundance of humor and wit. The king of dad puns, his humor kept the light on for everyone around him, whether times were light or dark. He kept his family and friends close throughout the years, maintaining life-long friendships throughout his location and career changes. Everyone who knew him felt especially important – he had an amazing ability to make everyone feel heard and seen.
He was the family historian, keeping and maintaining copious family records and notes throughout his life on his thousands of thumb and hard drives. And he was an animal whisperer, showing the best sides of humanity in his treatment of his furry companions.
Don had strong faith in God, with beliefs that he ardently defended no matter what the cost.
Don is survived by his loving wife, Christina Yarnot-Sutter, his four daughters, Jennifer Shelton, Emily Dowel, Katie Rae Coe, and Sarah Torrance; his brother Steve Sutter, his niece Edith Stover, and his great friends near and far.
A memorial service will be held on Monday, April 21, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at Bowman Funeral Parlor, located at 10254 W. Carlton Bay Drive, Garden City, Idaho.