John L Sutton Jr.

John L. Sutton Jr, 82, was born to John Sr. and Jessie Sutton on September 2, 1928 in Stockton, California. He grew up with an older sister, Jan and a younger brother, Jerry. The family moved around California a lot because of John Sr.'s work. When John Jr. finished high school he attended U.C. Berkeley. He graduated with a Bachelor's degree in civil engineering.

After John completed his education he enlisted in the U.S. Army. He worked as a photographer and served over seas during the Korean War. It was then that he met his future bride, Jeannine Tixier. The two were married on September 22, 1951 and he was discharged from the Army in 1952. After serving his country John went to work for Cal trans, working all over California. Then he went to work for Winston Green Drake and then J.F. Shea. He worked on Interstate 5, the Oroville Dam, The tunnel from Whiskeytown to Keswick among many other structures.

While living in San Francisco John and Jeannine started their family. the eldest son, Patrick was born in 1952. Their second son, Bruce came in 1955. In the early 60's the family moved up to the Redding area where Jeannine gave birth to their youngest son, Peter.

In his free time and after he retired, John enjoyed wood carving, photography, camping and being outdoors. His sense of humor will be greatly missed.

John is survived by his wife of 59 years Jeannine Sutton; sons Patrick L. Sutton and his wife Darlene, Bruce Sutton and his wife Cathie, Peter D. Sutton and his wife Sherry; brother, Jerry Sutton; granddaughter Rachel Ray and her children Jessica, Brittney, Jared and Zach; grandson Justin Sutton; granddaughter Leah Rawlinson and her children Brea, Noah, Brandon and Sophia; grandson Christopher Sutton his wife Rebbeca and their children Evie Mae and Christopher Scott; granddaughter Malaya Gustafson her husband Shawn and their children Gabriel and Nathaniel.

He is preceded in death by his parents John L. Sutton Sr. and Jessie Sutton; and his sister Jan Spencer.

A graveside service will be held on Friday, January 14, 2011 at the Northern California Veterans Cemetery in Igo, CA at 10:15 a.m. Arrangements are in the care of Lawncrest Chapel (530-222-1587).