Craig M. Sutton Sr.

He was born March 20, 1951, in Dunkirk, the son of the late William and Alice (Thompson) Sutton.

A lifelong resident of the area, Craig was a graduate of Dunkirk High School. He was a Vietnam veteran and served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1970-72 and the New York Army National Guard from 1973-97.

He had been employed at Al Tech Specialty Steel Corp. for 32 years. Craig was a life member of the American Legion Post 62, Sons of the American Legion Post 434, Moniuszko Club, Exempt Volunteer Firemen’s Association, and the World War II Vets.

Craig was a patriotic member of the community as well as a generous and loving family man. He served with distinction as the commander of the American Legion Post 62 and later the County Commander. For many years, he regularly took part in numerous community events for veterans and taught US flag etiquette to children in schools.

Some of his favorite activities included playing with his grandchildren, gardening, driving his classic car, enjoying nature, and socializing at Matt’s News scratching tickets with his friends.

Survivors include his wife of 29 years, Jean M. (Gornikiewicz) Sutton; three sons: Craig Jr. (Karly) Sutton, Kenneth (Jen) Sutton and Matthew (Monika) Sutton; and five grandchildren: Paige Sutton, Gretchen Sutton, Emaline Sutton, Chloe Sutton and Dodge Sutton.

Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by his stepsons: John and Joseph Gizowski.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the American Legion Post 62, 211 Central Ave., Dunkirk on Saturday, Nov. 26, at 1 p.m.

Donations can be made to Chautauqua Hospice and Palliative Care or the American Diabetes Association.

Arrangements are by the McGrawKowal Funeral Home.