Dennis Edward Sutherland

Dennis Edward Sutherland, 78, of Van Meter, passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday, January 28, 2025. Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Friday, February 7, 2025, at Caldwell Parrish Funeral Home, Adel Chapel. A funeral service will take place at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 8, 2025, at the Van Meter American Legion Hall. A private family inurnment with military honors will be held on Monday, February 10, 2025, at the Iowa Veterans Cemetery in Adel. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be directed to the Van Meter American Legion Post No. 403. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.caldwellparrish.com

Dennis was born on November 6, 1946, in Northwest Iowa, to Gene and Lois (Matthiesen) Sutherland. He graduated from Adel High School in 1964. Dennis took great pride in his military service, and the lessons he learned during those years remained with him for the rest of his life.

On September 25, 1976, Dennis married the love of his life, Elaine Culbertson, in Van Meter. Together, they built a beautiful life and a big, loving family.

A proud member of the Van Meter American Legion Post No. 403, Dennis dedicated much of his time to his fellow veterans. He was also a member of the Van Meter Baptist Church, where he served faithfully for many years. He worked as a machinist at John Deere for 30 years, retiring in 1995, and later spent several years working in conservation.

Dennis was a kind and generous man, always ready to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. Whether it was assisting his family or a neighbor, offering advice, or taking on a project, he gave selflessly and never expected anything in return. His warmth and compassion made a lasting impact on everyone he met.

He had a deep love for the outdoors and found great joy in nature. Fishing and hunting were among his favorite pastimes. He had a special talent for gardening and his passion extended to beekeeping. Dennis was also a gifted cook and canner. He took great pride in his famous brisket, a dish that became a favorite at family gatherings.

With a natural talent for working with his hands, Dennis was a true craftsman. He enjoyed building and repairing anything he could, from smokers to birdhouses, always finding new ways to create and improve. He had an incredible ability to fix machines and tinker with projects, never hesitating to take on a challenge.

Though he was small in stature, Dennis had a heart and presence that were larger than life. His unwavering strength, wisdom, and kindness left a lasting impression on everyone he encountered. His quick wit and warm smile made him a joy to be around, and his laughter could light up any room.

More than anything, family was his greatest joy. He was a devoted husband, father, and “Papa,” who cherished every moment spent with his loved ones. His love for his family was boundless, and he made sure they always knew how much they meant to him. His legacy of love, generosity, and hard work will continue to live on through the many lives he touched.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Elaine Sutherland of Van Meter; children: Christy (Mark) Vesey of Waukee, Kimberley (Marvin) Firch of Earlham, Sean (Kathy) Culbertson of Newton, and Scott (Cindi) Culbertson of Des Moines; 15 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren; siblings: Sandy (Jim) Garoutte of Adel, Deani (Jeff) Montang of Minnetrista, Minnesota, Ronnie (Kristi) Sutherland of Adel, Joani (Floyd) Groves of Rippey, and Carol (Bill) Barrow of Woodward; along with many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Gene and Lois Sutherland, and his brother, Roger Sutherland.