Shirley Sautter, age 89, passed away on September 12, 2026, at The Fountains at Hosanna in Lakeville, Minnesota.

Born on July 4th in Morrill, Kansas, Shirley always delighted in having fireworks on her birthday — a fitting tribute to her bright, joyful spirit. She married the love of her life, Chet Sautter, on August 15, 1959. Together they moved to Moorhead, Minnesota, where they raised their four children and built a life centered around faith, family, and community.

During their years in Moorhead, Shirley and Chet were active members of their church, singing in the choir and participating in Bible studies. They attended countless college sporting events and concerts, always supporting their community and enjoying time together. Shirley was gifted with many hobbies, including sewing, Hardanger embroidery, volunteering, and attending Bible studies.

Shirley and Chet shared a love of travel and took memorable trips across North America — including Washington, Arizona, Tennessee, Hawaii, California, New Mexico, Missouri, Florida, and Canada. Later in life, they retired to Bella Vista, Arkansas, seeking a warmer climate and new adventures. After fifteen years, they returned to Minnesota to be closer to family.

Shirley enjoyed her time at The Fountains at Hosanna, where she made many friends and took part in the activities she loved. The community there brought her joy, companionship, and a sense of belonging and she always had a smile on her face.

Shirley was preceded in death by her husband, Chet; her parents, Dale and Edith Gaston; her brother, Norman Gaston; and her grandson Logan Sampson.

She is survived by her children: Greg and Jennifer (Laverty) Sautter, Lorraine (Sautter) and John Teilborg, Britta (Sautter) and Greg Cabanos, Rachel (Sautter) and Rob Sampson.

She is also lovingly remembered by her grandchildren — Olivia, Isabel, Lindsay, Benjamin, Marcelina, Matthew, Jenna, and Jessica, Haley, Ella — and her great‑grandchildren — Lilly, Evelynn, Joslynn, Oakley, Declan, Ireland, Adelaide, and Jovie.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Shirley’s memory may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association. 

Shirley’s legacy is one of faith, creativity, devotion, and family. She will be deeply missed and forever cherished by all who were blessed to know her.

A Celebration of Life service will be held Monday, September 28, 2026, at 11:00 am at Hosanna Church Chapel (9600 163rd Street W., Lakeville, MN).  There will be an opportunity to visit with the family at 10:00 am, prior to the service.