Don Kutz

(From Lakin Funeral Home)

Donald Allen Kutz, Sr., age 84, died Tuesday, June 4, 2024 after a brief illness. Mr. Kutz was born on November 5, 1939, in Sarcoxie, MO to Ben and Freda Kutz, and was the oldest of six sons. 

Mr. Kutz married the love of his life Deanna Anderson in Independence, MO on September 12, 1964. She preceded him in death on December 4, 2000. Mr. Kutz married Betty Wrobleski at St. Mary’s Church in Pierce City, MO on April 18, 2008. She preceded him in death on September 10, 2015.

Mr. Kutz had a 40-year career with Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company, holding various management and field positions across six states. He retired in 1999. He returned to Pierce City in 2005, eventually owning the house his parents bought in 1950. This house has hosted numerous family gatherings for the past 15 years. He was an active member of St. Mary’s Church and the Pierce City Senior Center, serving as president for several years. Mr. Kutz traveled extensively, visiting his children and attending all family events until he could no longer travel. The family would like to acknowledge the tremendous support that Rodney Wrobleski provided to Don over the past several years. Rodney’s mother Betty was a very important person in Don’s life. Don and Betty had seven wonderful years together.

He is survived by three children: Don Jr (Lee Ann) of Hernando, MS; Jennifer (Rob) Phenicie of Missoula, MT; and Brian (Michele) Kutz of Canton, OH and four grandchildren Brittany Kutz, Andrew Kutz, Sarah Kutz and Meghen (Brenden) Kristiansen. Brothers Benjamin (Yvonne) Kutz of Columbia, MO; Richard (Karen) Kutz of Joplin, MO; James (Ann) Kutz) of Glen Allen, VA and Thomas (Karla) Kutz of St. Louis, MO. Also surviving are stepchildren Rodney (Melissa) Wrobleski of Monett, MO; Brenda Buchanen of Liberty, MO; and Jacki (Kyle) Edwards of Monett, MO; along with fifteen step-grandchildren and nine step-great-grandchildren and a long list of nieces and nephews.

Mr. Kutz was preceded in death by his parents, brother Kenneth, baby sister Mary Ann, and stepdaughter Mary Beth “Guessie” Pierce.

Visitation will be at St. Mary’s Church in Pierce CIty, MO on Thursday, June 6 from 6 – 8 pm.

All family and friends will gather at St. Mary’s Gymnasium at Noon on Friday, June 7 for lunch. Graveside Services will be at 2 pm at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Pierce City, MO with Father Matt Rehrauer officiating.

Any memorials in Don’s honor should be directed to St. Mary’s School. Arrangements are being handled by Lakin Funeral Home, Pierce City, MO.