James Stutz

James Otto Stutz, 89, slipped the surly bonds of Earth into the hands of The Almighty on January 20th, 2013, at St Francis Health Center in Topeka, Kansas.  Born to Otto & Heddy Stutz, February 1st, 1923 in Manhattan, New York, he committed his life to setting the perfect example as a devoted husband, the world's greatest father, loving PopPop, true friend and a highly skilled artisan as a world class jeweler/model maker.  He will be sorely missed and remembered by all who ever knew him or witnessed his limitless compassion, selflessness, kindness, and generosity.

He spent his early years growing up in Teaneck, New Jersey before moving to St. Gallen, Switzerland with his family and served in the Swiss Army before embarking upon a jewelry apprenticeship in Lucerne.

Upon his return to the United States, he met and married the one and only true love of his life, Trudy (Sarah) Stutz, on January 10th, 1953.  Unfortunately, she preceded him in death on January 23rd, 2001.

Over the course of his jewelry/model-making career, James was well known for the design and creation of elegant, one-of-a-kind, original pieces for exclusive customers of Harry Winston Jewelers in Manhattan, New York, including heads of state, and, after becoming self-employed, for Tiffany's.

James was a member of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Brevard, NC.  He especially enjoyed spending time with Trudy, his family and friends.  Always the consummate teacher and role model, he would never pass up the opportunity to pass along his wisdom and knowledge to his children and grandchildren.  He was an avid skier, golfer, fisherman, truly enjoyed mountain climbing with his father, gardening, swimming, and, of course, walking/hiking the beautiful mountains of North Carolina, which constantly reminded him of his childhood in Switzerland.

James leaves behind his children James O. Stutz, Jr. of Chesapeake, Virginia; Gregory H. Stutz and his wife Elisabeth of Winston-Salem, North Carolina; Carol H. H. Gitto and her husband Nicholas of Topeka, Kansas; and four loving grandchildren; Christina, Nicholas, James III and Gregory II.

Funeral services will be held at the Moore Funeral Home in Brevard, NC at 10 AM on February 1st, 2013 followed by a graveside service. In lieu of flowers, the family requests consideration of a memorial contribution, in memory of James O. Stutz, to the St Francis Health Center Foundation, 1700 SW 7th Street, Topeka, Kansas 66606, for the development and support of enhanced services for seniors.

To leave a condolence for the Stutz fsmily please visit "obituaries" at www.moore-fh.com .

Moore Funeral home & Cremations are casring for the famliy.