David Schuette Vinton

David Schuette Vinton, 92, of Morton, passed away at 11:25 am Sunday, April 12, 2026 at his home.  He was born on May 28, 1933 in Manitowoc, WI to William Upsal and Martha Rose Schuette Vinton. He married Miriam Sommer by Pastor Milo Nussbaum at Grace Evangelical Mennonite Church in Morton on January 27, 1969.  This marriage lasted over 50 years. He was a loving caregiver for his beloved wife, Miriam, during her long battle with Parkinson’s. She preceded him in death on July 25, 2019.

He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Miriam, and brother, Robert L. Vinton.

Surviving are his only daughter, Susan (Darrell) Stone II of Bonita Springs, FL; four grandchildren, Darrell K. (Lauren) Stone III of Westfield, NJ , David W. (Kelly) Stone of Fort Mill, SC, Gregory J. (Logan) Stone of Cumming, GA, and Lauren R. (Jacob) Noth of Dallas, TX; eight great grandchildren, Evelyn, Madelyn, William, and Oliver, Abigail, Avery, and Monroe, Madden and baby girl due in July.

David made a commitment to Jesus in 1948 and was baptized.  He graduated from Lincoln High School in Manitowoc, WI in 1951. He received a BSME from University of Wisconsin in 1955. He received his MEA from Bradley in 1969.  He was an Eagle Scout and a USAF Veteran.

He started working construction at the age of eight with his father’s business, Vinton Construction Co. in Manitowoc, WI.  On August 8, 1955, he started with Caterpillar Inc. He spent two years (December 1955-1957) with the USAF as a Lieutenant in charge of Vehicle Maintenance at Laon Air Base in France. At CTCO, he was in research, engineering, chemical products, and electronic design, obtaining 12 US Patents.  After 30 years at CTCO, he did consulting work for CTCO and Hospital Albert Schweitzer in Haiti. He was awarded the 2007 CAT Innovator’s Award. (Top 25 Inventors)

He was faithful to the Lord.  At Grace Evangelical Church in Morton, IL, he taught Sunday school for primary and adults.  He was active in VBS and the Building Committee. He was president of the Mennonite Hospital Association in Bloomington, IL. He belonged to MEDA, SAE, CBMC, EAA, PSA, and ISPE. David was dedicated and loyal in all aspects of his life.

David and Miriam enjoyed family, especially their grandchildren and great grandchildren.  They especially loved their log home in Bailey’s Harbor, WI, in Door County. They also enjoyed photography, church, good food, hand work, and travel.  He was a Green Bay Packers fan.  He had a special and loving relationship with his daughter, Susan. With his brilliant mind, David could fix, repair, or solve anything. He was well-versed in all subjects and intellectually inspiring. He was a true gentleman.

His funeral service will be at 11:00 am Saturday, April 18, 2026 at Davis-Oswald Funeral Home in Tremont. Pastors Doug Habegger and Tim Bertsche will officiate.  Visitation will be from 10:00 to 10:45 am Saturday at the funeral home.  Burial will be in Mount Hope Cemetery in Tremont with military honors provided by the USAF.

Memorials may be made to Taylor University, 1846 Main St. Upland, Indiana 46989 or Peoria Rescue Ministries/Pathway Ministries, 601 SW Adams St. Peoria, IL 61602.

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