John Francis Sauter

John Francis Sauter, age 80, of Fort Smith, Arkansas, passed away on October 6, 2025. He was born on October 19, 1944, in Northampton, Massachusetts, to Howard Earl and Frances Marie Sauter.

John attended Oklahoma State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Hotel and Restaurant Management. He later pursued a Master of Business Administration at the University of Central Oklahoma in Edmond. His career led him to work as Food Service Director in several hospitals before settling in Fort Smith in 1984, when he accepted the role of Director of Food and Nutrition Services at Sparks Regional Medical Center. It was there that he met his future wife, Cindy (Hutcherson) Sauter, a Fort Smith native.

John loved to cook and had a real knack for making decorative food displays. He had the patience and creativity to turn fruit and other ingredients into eye-catching arrangements that always wowed his family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

John is survived by his loving wife, Cindy Sauter of the home; his siblings, Jean Sauter of Valrico, Florida; Jerry Sauter and wife Arlene of Elk Grove, California; and Janice Battey and husband Dave of Pensacola, Florida. He also leaves behind three nephews, one niece, several great-nieces and nephews, cousins, and many dear friends who will miss him and remember him fondly.

A memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on October 22, 2025, at Edwards Funeral Home, 201 N 12th St, Fort Smith, AR 72901. Following the service, a visitation will take place for the family to greet friends and share memories together.