Arthur Donald Victorine, devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away surrounded by the love of his family. Born on December 13, 1943, Art lived a full and faithful life defined by service, commitment, and deep love for those closest to him.
Art was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur G. Victorine and Margaret Klein Victorine and by his brothers Michael, Greg, and John. He is survived by his beloved wife Suzanne and his siblings Judy Guzzo (Ron), Geraldine Sandnes (Scott), Ronald (Marlene), Albert (Cheryl), Donald (Jan). He was a proud and loving father to David Victorine (formerly married to Lisa), Matthew Victorine (Natalie), and Amy Wedlund (Matt White). Nothing brought him greater joy than his grandchildren: Paige Victorine (Hayden Howlett), Morgan Kohler (Jake), Zoe Victorine and Peter Victorine, Jonathon Wedlund, Benjamin Wedlund and Zachary Wedlund. He was also blessed with a great-grandson, Maxwell Kohler, along with numerous nieces and nephews across the United States.
Art “Butch” grew up in Chicago, where he attended St. Benedict Parish and School. It was there that he formed lifelong friendships with Wally Combith, Tony Ryan, Tom Koenig (deceased), and Al Gamauf. Their bond endured across decades and miles, as they faithfully stayed in touch and gathered at least once each year to reconnect, reminisce, and celebrate their enduring friendship — a testament to the loyalty and deep relationships Art valued throughout his life.
He served in the Illinois National Guard before beginning a distinguished 30-year career with American Airlines. His dedication to service also led him to work at the Baptist Hospital Foundation and with the Tennessee Highway Safety Patrol in Nashville. Throughout his career, Art lived and worked in many cities including Chicago; Boston; Cincinnati; Detroit; Toronto; Dallas; and Nashville — forming friendships and leaving lasting impressions wherever he went.
On April 1, 1967, Art married the love of his life, Suzanne Ketterer Victorine. They would have celebrated 59 years of marriage this coming April. Together they built a beautiful life centered on faith, family, and community. Art’s faith was the cornerstone of his life. He served as a Eucharistic minister at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton and was a proud member of the Knights of Columbus Assembly #7850, 4th Degree and the SEAC Men’s Club. In his later years, he and Suzanne made their home in Heritage Ranch, where he remained active in the community. He bowled with the SEAS Bowling Team — proudly achieving his one and only perfect 300 game — played billiards with his Pelican Hills Drive neighbors, participated in the Republican Club, and welcomed others as a greeter for the Heritage Ranch Chorale. Most of all, he cherished bowling alongside Suzanne and sharing everyday moments with family and friends.
Art will be remembered for his steady strength, generous heart, unwavering faith, loyal friendships, and deep devotion to his family. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the values he instilled, and the love he so freely gave.