Ronald Walton Suter, 83, of Lafayette, passed away on January 20, 2026, at Franciscan Hospital. Ronald was born to the late Horace & Jaunita Walton Suter on August 22, 1942 in Lebanon, IN. A proud graduate of Colfax High School in 1960, Ronald went on to serve his country as an Army paratrooper with the 101st Airborne Division, known affectionately as the “Screaming Eagles.”
After proudly serving as a paratrooper, Ronald returned to civilian life with a sense of purpose. From 1969 to 1977, he dedicated himself to protecting the citizens of San Diego as a police officer right alongside his brother Ted. Earlier in his life he married Stella Griffith and had 3 kids, Kim, Rick and Tracy. He volunteered for a hospice association in his spare moments, focusing on bringing comfort and support to those in need. Ronald continued his education at Grossmont College in San Diego. He later married Carol Singer on November 7, 1983.
Ronald was known for his charismatic personality, often described as funny and a good storyteller. To many, he was considered a hero, not only for his military service but also for how he lived his life with integrity and kindness. He had a deep love for painting and especially enjoyed painting along with Bob Ross. He took pride in caring for his family and being a supportive figure in their lives.
He is survived by his loving wife, Carol E. Singer Suter; his children, Kimberly Collins of Lafayette, Traci (Steve) Kawa of Lafayette, Rick Suter of Boswell, Sarah Suter of Lafayette, and Zachary Suter of Boston, MA; along with numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren who will carry on his legacy. Ronald was preceded in death by his parents, a brother, Ted Suter, and great-grandchildren, Adam and Gracelyn Johnson.
His remarkable life, marked by service, love, and laughter, will be cherished in the hearts of all who knew him.
Visitation will be held on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM at Hahn-Groeber Funeral & Cremation Services in Lafayette, Indiana. A funeral service will follow at 1:00 PM on the same day. Memorial contributions can be made to: Wolf Park 4004 E. 800 N. Battle Ground, IN 47920- https://visitwolfpark.org/. Hahn-Groeber Funeral Home will be caring for the Suter family. Please leave memories and condolences at hahngroeberfuneralhome.com.