Michael Joseph Sutera

Sep 2, 1930 -

May 4, 2022

Michael Joseph Sutera was born on Sept. 2, 1930, to Gus and Eva (Mandracchia) Sutera, immigrants from Sicily, Italy, who settled in Norristown, Pa. Mike grew up working hard with his parents selling fruit and vegetables at their local market. His parents had a hard life providing for themselves as well as two sons. Michael chose to volunteer, at 17 years of age, to join the U.S. Army to fight in the name of freedom and appreciation for his country.

When he was 21, Michael went to cooking school at Fort Devons, Mass., and, until retiring from the military in 1969, was a cook for the army. He served in Korea for the 25th Infantry Division, Tropic Lightning from 1952-1953.

In 1950, he married Rose Maria Muscatello. Rose (d. 1966) and their son, Michael Gus Sutera (d. 2004) both preceded Michael in death. As a widower for 18 years, he continued working many jobs such as cooking for the JBER NCO Club. He then worked for the State of Alaska at API as a housekeeper, where he met Maria D. Navarrete. They married on Dec. 15, 1984.

Michael was an avid runner who persuaded Maria to join him. His running achievements included racing up Mt. Marathon in Seward, Alaska, from 1981-2001; a gold medal in the high jump at the World Senior Games in St. George, Utah; completion of the Mayor's Marathon in Anchorage, Alaska, and the Equinox Marathon in Fairbanks, Alaska; as well as many awards for other local races. When running was no longer possible, he shared his enthusiasm as Coach Mike. His first task in 2008 was to train a group of 10 friends to complete the Klondike Road Relay from Skagway to Whitehorse.

At 91 years of age, on May 4, 2022, his trip to heaven began. His legacy won't be forgotten by all who were fortunate enough to spend time with him and Maria at their home or on the trails. Mike's greatest role was as a beloved husband, father and friend.

Mike is survived by his loving wife, Maria Sutera; stepson, Ricky Navarrete; and cousins in Pennsylvania.

On May 12, 2022, a funeral mass was held at St. Patrick's Church. He was buried with full military honors at Ft. Richardson National Cemetery on May 13, 2022, followed by a Celebration of Life at Post 29 of the American Legion.