Marvel Sutton

For the first time in 99 years the sun rose on a world missing the presence of a treasured wife, mom and grandmother. Marvel "Babe" Maxine Sutton passed away Saturday, November 13, 2010 at Hilltop Care Center in Spirit Lake, Iowa. She was born on September 7, 1911 in Brookings, South Dakota, the youngest of four children born to Walter Johnson and Clara Lane Johnson. An early family nickname stuck and she was affectionately known as "Babe" her whole life. Her early childhood was spent in the Alta-Aurelia area where Walter farmed. At a young age she moved with her family to Storm Lake, the place she always thought of as home. Some of her fondest memories involved the lake where she spent many hours swimming to her heart's content. One of her accomplishments as a teenager was swimming across the lake from Sunset Beach to the Casino Beach. She graduated from Storm Lake High School where she was a cheerleader for the Tornadoes when their colors were pink and green. Her marriage to Marion Robbins took place on January 3, 1937. Before his death in 1940, they had two children, Tom and Cindy. In 1942, she was united in marriage to Arthur Sutton, a marriage that lasted 68 years and was blessed with two children, Lois Bea and Artie. Babe had many dear friends over the years, especially in Storm Lake and Alta. She was known for her outgoing and friendly nature and her keen sense of humor. She was an excellent Bridge player. She loved to dance and actually won a Charleston contest at one time. She enjoyed many years of playing golf in two-ball tournaments with Art. She will be dearly missed by her 11 grandchildren who always found her to be fun, loving and supportive. She was also a great-grandmother to 19 and a great-great grandmother of 4. It is a comfort to know she will be rejoining her parents, brothers Doyle and Jack, and her beloved sister, Lois. Per her wish, her body will be cremated. A family celebration of life is being planned as well as graveside services at a later date. Condolences may be sent to the Art Sutton Family at 609 252nd Ave. Spirit Lake, Iowa 51360