James A. Suiter

Jim was a big presence and did not know a stranger. He loved to talk. He was friendly, funny, caring, kind and giving.

Family and friends were an important part of his life. He loved them all and was loyal and supportive. Jim was someone you could count on for great advice and a big hug.

Jim loved to shop, and he liked to look good. He was always well dressed and was never afraid to be bold in his pink, purple or neon golf shirts.

Jim was born in Anderson, Indiana, to Norris E. Suiter and Martha Cornelius Suiter, on March 6, 1936. He was one of 5 children.

Jim grew up in small towns, first in Clarksville, Indiana and then Fortville, Indiana, just in time for 5th grade, where he met his future bride to be, Sydney Adams. Jim told many happy stories of his childhood adventures and especially enjoyed his time spent on his grandparents farm.

Jim graduated from Fortville High School in 1954. While in high school, Jim excelled as an athlete and lettered in three sports, basketball, baseball, and track. His love for basketball left him with fond memories of playing in the 1954 Indiana state regionals at Hinkle Fieldhouse. He was tasked with guarding Oscar Robertson and keeping him in check. To quote Jim, “I held him to 10 points in one quarter”. It was also in high school that he began to date a beautiful cheerleader named Sydney Adams.

Jim went on to Ball State Teachers College, where he was a member of Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity. He became engaged and married Sydney Adams in 1957. In 1958, he graduated with a degree in Business Administration.

Jim worked in the insurance industry from 1959 until retirement. His last 33 years were spent with American United Life. He had a very strong work ethic and eventually rose to the title of Vice President of Policy Benefits.

Jim and Sydney had three children, Betsy, Mindy and Jamie. Jim was a fun dad. He was goofy, entertaining, and funny. But he was also supportive, loving and taught by setting a great example.

Jim retired in 1999, and golf and grandkids took center stage. There were many special memories made with the grandchildren. Birthday parties, birthday dinners, sleepovers and much more. He had 11 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren. He loved, enjoyed, and supported them all, in every way always.

In between these family times there was golf. It was his workout, his social time, and his passion. He belonged to Harbor Trees Golf Club until retirement, he played in many tournaments and a few golf leagues. One of those leagues has lasted almost 25 years with a group of good friends. He played twice a week until he was 87.

Jim was preceded in death by his wife and soulmate of 65 years, Sydney Adams Suiter. He is survived by, daughters, Betsy Onofrey (Dave), and Mindy Long (Larry) son, Jamie Suiter (Lisa). 11 grandchildren, Vanessa Suiter, Justin Long (Jennifer), Kashmir Stott (Liam), David Onofrey (Veronica), Jarred Long, Sydney Suiter, Alexandra Onofrey, Catherine Onofrey, James Onofrey, Lainey Suiter, and Lola Suiter. 4 great grandchildren, Henry Suiter, Jackson Long, Fallon Stott and Monroe Stott.

Jim is also survived by his siblings, whom he loved and cared for very much, sisters, Linda Downey, Sara Ashby and brother, Phil Suiter (Cris). Sister, Carolyn Jenkins preceded Jim in death.

Visitation will be held at Carmel United Methodist Church, located at 621 S Rangeline Rd, Carmel, IN 46032, on October 8, 2025, from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm. The funeral service will follow at the same location from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Carmel Clay Education Foundation for the Sydney A. Suiter Memorial Scholarship. Contributions can be sent to 515 E. Main Street, Carmel, Indiana, 46032, or made online at https://www.ccs.k12.in.us/foundation.