Harry Sutton Amster

1930 – 2023

Harry Sutton Amster passed away recently after living life to the fullest for 93 years, sharing adventures with family and friends.

Born in Jerome, Arizona, Harry was the son of Harry and Ruth Amster and younger brother of Lois Amster Harper (Wilmer) of Phoenix and Mary Faye “Murph” Amster Klaus (Max) of Vicksburg, MS.

In 1936, the Amster family moved to Phoenix. Harry attended Kenilworth Elementary School and North High School. Between 1948 and 1952, he attended the University of Arizona, where he studied Business Administration. He was President of Sigma Nu Fraternity, as well as the President of the Interfraternity Council.

During his time at the University of Arizona, Harry met Martha Storts. They married in 1954 and had three children together, Kirk (1955), Carolyn (1956) and Brian (1959).

Harry joined the U.S. Navy in 1953. While stationed in Portsmouth, NH, Lieutenant Amster commanded a 65-foot L-boat as part of the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard.

In 1955, Harry and family returned to Arizona where he joined the family business, Auto Safety House (ASH) as a salesman of truck equipment. ASH became the Arizona Blue Bird School Bus distributor (1959), and he became a recognized and respected leader in his field. He retired in 2000, after successfully growing and selling ASH with his son, Kirk.

Harry was a well-known businessman in the Phoenix area. In 1969, he was invited to join the Phoenix Thunderbirds. For more than 50 years, he was an active member and continued to participate as a (retired) Life Bird into his 90’s. During this period, he developed many close friendships and created many fond memories.

Harry received his commercial pilot’s license in 1957 and bought his first airplane in 1958. He retired as a pilot in 2018.

Harry and Bonnie Pine were married in 1984 and eventually settled into their home in the Camelback Mountain area. For 34 years, they explored the world together, touring thousands of miles on their Gold Wing motorcycle, flying private airplanes, and boating on the “Escape Hatch” houseboat. Lake Powell became his “home away from home” and one of his favorite places to relax and enjoy the outdoors.

Harry is survived by his children, Kirk, Carolyn, and Brian (Georgia), twin granddaughters, Addison and Bailey, Bonnie’s sons, Craig and Bruce Modesitt, and their families.

A celebration of his 93 years of life will be held at a later date and updated in his obituary. In lieu of flowers, friends are encouraged to donate to Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) Foundation for young student pilot scholarships.

Please join friends and family to celebrate the life of Harry Amster.
Casual attire suggested.
Light lunch and non-alcoholic, beverages will be served.

Date: Sunday, November 5
Time: 11:00 am – 1:30 pm
Location: Scottsdale Elks Lodge
6398 E Oak Street, Scottsdale, AZ
Please RSVP
Email: jbamster@gmail.com
or
Text Brian Amster: 480-363-3013