Robert William "Roc" Sutter

PORTAGE - Robert William "Roc" Sutter, age 72, of Portage, was called home to be with his mother who he adored and loved and taught him how to fish, on Wednesday, Dec. 2, 2020. Robert was born on Oct. 10, 1948, the son William and Maxine (Cooley) Sutter. He attended East High School and then served in the U.S. Marine Corp. Robert went to Vietnam for two tours and was wounded both times. He was awarded the purple heart for both tours. His second injury ended his combat soldier career and he returned home to be near his family. Robert enrolled in the UW-Platteville and at 24 years old was injured in a farming accident and became an incomplete quadriplegic, paralyzed from mid chest down. He was able to use one good arm. The scars physically and mentally were heavy on him. Robert had survivor's guilt syndrome as he was the only survivor during both events, everyone else in his squadron was killed. He told his nephew about nightmares he would have every night, so he got very little sleep. Robert was brave and above toughness, honest, giving and caring. He was a lover of wildlife, an avid fisherman-weather permitting, he and his nephew almost always caught fish when they went (some angels helped him out.) Robert taught survival skills and mentioned to his nephew that he needed to be a positive asset to society. His nephew was his best friend, caretaker and fishing buddy for over 30 years. It wasn't easy at the end. He was stubborn and bull-headed. His nephew knew things were getting bad for Robert in the end, but they tried and the last issue won. Robert is no longer in pain or suffering anymore. Thank you God for letting him finally come Home, after 45 years in a chair. Thank you also to the VA Madison doctors/nurses, hospice care nurse, Shannon, Milwaukee VA, especially nurse Tammy and all his friends at Chapter 5 Vietnam Vets. Robert "Roc" is survived by his two sisters, Kathryn L. (Patrick) Soukup and Pamela Meryweather; three nephews, John Soukup, David Soukup, Daniel Schilling; three nieces, Melissa Soukup, Amanda McCormack and Lizz Gregory; good friend who honored “Roc” for his service for his country, Rodger Powell; and beloved four legged canine companion, Roxy. He was preceded in death by his parents. Memorials may be gifted in Roc's name to Wisconsin Vietnam Veterans Association, VFW Local Chapter No. 7591 and Columbia County Humane Society. "Semper Fi!" Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com. Gunderson East Funeral & Cremation Care 5203 Monona Drive (608) 221-5420