Stephen Douglas Stutz
August 15, 1935 - March 30, 2014
Stephen passed away March 30th, 2014 of natural causes. Born in Bloomington, Illinois on August 15th, 1935 to Clifford Noel Stutz and Gladys Loraine Douglas.
He graduated from South High School and earned his Bachelor and Masters Degrees at the University of Utah. Steve married Karen Wakefield in the Salt Lake Temple on November 26th, 1958. His love and deep respect for her he radiated every day of his life. Steve worked for I.B.M. for 31 years. He later taught at Boise State University, Salt Lake Community College, Westminster College as well as online classes for Western Governors University, and Thomas Edison University.
Steve was a faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He served in a Stake Presidency, bishoprics, as a seminary and institute teacher, as well as many other callings. He especially loved the youth of the Church. He served with a zest for life and never left a stone unturned. He served seven missions. His first in Western Canada, four with his beloved companion Karen to Saskatchewan, Canada, Nauvoo, Illinois, Oahu, Hawaii and San Diego, California and lastly two missions as a Church Employment Resource Service Missionary. Steve was a magnificent teacher who never wanted recognition, but only sought to bring out the best in others.
His family was his most prized possession. He spent hours serving others and teaching his children and grandchildren how to work, how to serve and how to love unconditionally.
Survived by his wife Karen; their children Jim (Kathy), Doug (Keysha), Ron (Jenny), Bob (Carla), Christine, and Jon (Colleen); as well as 26 grandchildren; and six great grandchildren. Preceded in death by his parents and brother Robert.
Funeral services celebrating Steve's life will be held on Friday, April 4th at 11:00 AM at the Riverton 3rd Ward, 12998 South 1300 West, Riverton. Friends may call upon the family at this location for a viewing on Thursday, April 3rd from 6:00 to 8:00 PM or also on Friday morning from 9:30 to 10:45 AM. Interment to follow at Elysian Burial Gardens, 1075 East 4580 South, Salt Lake City.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to your local ward missionary fund.
In Loving Memory
At this time of sadness and grief, please remember how God loves your family and His great plan for us all. We, too, share our love and condolences for you. May your hearts be lighted through the atonement of Christ and lasting memories of a great man. Thank you for allowing us to contribute more fully to the missionary program! Love the Marlatt family
Laura & Jerry Marlatt
Moses Lake, Wa
I want you to know how much we loved and appreciated Elder Stutz and his service in the Employment Centers. I have come to appreciate his dedicated service and commitment to the Lord. Thanks for sharing him with us, and may the Lord bless each of you during this time of his passing to the other side.
Roger Mack
Riverton, Ut
Dear Stutz family, I pray that the peace from our Heavenly Father will surround you at this very sad time. What a wonderful family you are! I was so thankful for Ron's friendship at BYU and know how much he loved his family and what a great example his parents were to everyone they met. Love to you all. Fondly, Linda Johnson Markham
Linda Johnson Markham
Banks, Or
Karen, I'm so sorry too hear of Steve's passing. He was truly one of the great guys. Ann and I remember our trip with the IBM awards conference with you and Steve with fond memories. Unfortunately I will be out of town for Steves funeral, but our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Ken & Ann Harris
Ken E Harris
Salt Lake City, Ut
We are so sorry to learn of Brother Stutz's passing. We have such fond memories of Nauvoo experiences when we were Elders and Sisters together. Please know that you are in our daily thoughts and prayers. Love and hugs, The Stones
Jack and Patricia Stone
Pocatello, ID
I will always be grateful to Steve for hiring me at IBM and for his mentorship. Not only was he a very supportive manager, but I am amazed at his commitment to the Lord his service to others. I'm really glad we were able to spend a little time together a couple of years ago. Our love to you and your family. What a great legacy he has left!
Robin & Bob Van Wagenen
Farmington, nan
Our love and sympathy go to you Karen and your family. When we return from New York the end of October, we will look you up for a visit. You are in our prayers. Val and VaLayne
Val and VaLayne Finlayson
Scarsdale, NY
Dear Karen, We were saddened to hear about your sweetheart. We are serving ini New Zealand right now and so the Geddes were kind enough to email us about Steve's passing. We have such fond memories of you and Steve and wish we could be there to support you. We love you both very much and have enjoyed our association immensely. Thank Heaven for the gospel. Please know that we love you and will be thinking of you and praying for you. Let us know how you're doing. Love to you and yours, Ron and Anne Hawkins
Anne & Ron Hawkins
Hamilton, New Zealand, nan
Stutz family, Stephen's son Bob has been a great friend to me for over 25 years. While I only met his dad a few times, I know he lived a great life and influenced many. I am grateful to have known about him, through Bob. Our families' prayers are with you at this time.
Alan Thompson
Puyallup, Wa
The Stutz family was a part of my childhood and Brother Stutz was always so kind. He always had a smile and I'm sorry to hear of his passing.
Laura (Ewing) Bird
Meridian, Id
Dear Karen, We are very sorry for your loss of Steve. He was a very pleasing person to know and to work with. But, as you know, all things in this life are temporary. We must be thankful for each person that impacts our lives and look forward to our reunion in another life. We wish you the best and if we can be of service in any way, please call. With Love, Sally & Bob
Robert Haislip
Riverton, Ut