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BORN
1937
DIED
2023
Gary SUTHERLAND Obituary
SUTHERLAND, Gary Ross
May 21, 1937 - December 28, 2023
In Loving Memory
Gary Ross Sutherland, born in Edmonton, Alberta, on May 21, 1937, to farmer parents Bill and Mina, was a cherished brother to his two older sisters, Lucille and Agnes.
Gary's journey through life was marked by remarkable stories from his childhood, and at the tender age of 17, he embarked on a journey of hard work in heavy equipment jobs, eventually finding his way to Richmond. In 1967, he began his fulfilling career as a Power Plant Engineer at Richmond General Hospital, where destiny intertwined his path with his future wife, Margaret - a dedicated nurse there at the time. They exchanged vows on July 26, 1969, sealing a bond that would bring forth four beautiful children: Gary (Barry and Cheryl) and Margaret (Kelly and Sherri), completing their family with the arrival of their son Derek in 1971.
In 1979, Gary assumed the role of Chief Engineer at Delta Hospital, where his passion for his work thrived until his well-earned retirement in 2000. The years that followed were a celebration of life and love as Gary and Margaret traversed the landscapes of Canada, the USA, and Mexico in their fifth-wheel trailer. Annual reunions with friends became cherished traditions, especially the unforgettable moments shared around campfires, strumming the guitar alongside his dear friend Ray Ekren.
Gary's greatest role was that of a Grandfather to 10 beautiful grandchildren (Ryan, Brandon, Ashley, Casey, Stevie, Kyle, Makenzie, Levi, Aiden and Ava) and a Great-Grandfather to 5 wonderful great-grandchildren (Kaiya, Kehlani, Marcus, Wes and Marcus D). His legacy lives on in the countless memories of summers spent camping, tubing, and fishing in the scenic Okanagan, creating bonds that transcended generations.
From 1969 to 2013, Gary and Margaret called Ladner, BC, home, where they raised their family. In 2013, they embarked on a new chapter in Comox, BC, where they found solace in a beautiful condo overlooking the water - a place that brought Gary immense joy.
Tragically, in April 2023, cancer touched Gary's life. Undeterred, he faced his illness with unwavering positivity. The last three months of his journey were spent in the embrace of Hospice care, surrounded by compassionate nurses and doctors. Gary's resilience shone through as he shared quiet moments with loved ones, savoring the warmth of their presence until his final days. On December 28, 2023, Gary passed away peacefully, enveloped in the love that defined his life.
Raise a glass and strum a chord for Gary -
because if there's one thing he'd want,
it's a celebration filled with good music, laughter, and love.
Cheers to you, Gary!
May your joyous spirit live on in our hearts, forever.
Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, January 27, 2024 from 2:00 to 4:00pm at 888 RCAF Komox Wing, 1298 Military Row, Comox, BC.
A Celebration on Life will be held in Ladner at a later date, to be announced.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Gary SUTHERLAND
4 Entries
Cristie Toppin
January 30, 2024
Margaret and family. I am so sorry to hear of Gary's passing . Even thought I only had the pleasure of meeting him a handful of times he was a cherished friend of my dad's Bill and would always stop by to see him when in the Edmonton area . My Thoughts and prayers are with the family. Cristie Toppin and Marnie Gomes
Neil & Maureen Fatin
January 21, 2024
Dear Margaret & Family:
So sorry to hear of Gary's passing. Our sincerest condolences to you all.
We had the pleasure of meeting Gary & Margaret about 18 years ago in Lo de Marcos, Nayarit, Mexico and were fortunate enough to meet up with them most winters. We also had the pleasure of visiting their beautiful condo in Comox one Christmas. Gary was a kind, caring, fun-loving man, always optomistic and upbeat, even to the end. He was very appreciative of the care & attention given to him by the Hospice staff and volunteers. Whilst in Mexico he loved playing bocci, celebrating various events like Valentine's Day & St. Patlrick's Day, participating and helping on community fundraising events. We enjoyed the phone calls with him over the last few months. He loved Margaret & his family and will be sadly missed by all of us. Neil & Maureen Fatin
Randy
January 12, 2024
Gary was one of the kindest, funniest persons I ever met. I will always remember hanging around the Sutherland house in the 70´s and him sharing wisdom and chuckles with us all the while keeping us in check as best he could. Much love to the Sutherland family, may you all hold his memory close.
Janet Haigh
January 12, 2024
Dear Margaret and all of Gary's treasured family and friends: What an exceptional man Gary was; thank you for this fitting tribute to his optimistic, sunny legacy. May you all be wrapped in deep peace, knowing you sustained him to live his life fully on his terms right to the end. It was an absolute pleasure getting to know him better in Hospice, and hear his many entertaining stories. Sending healing love and comfort to you all as you adjust to this big transition; he was an impressive man! Your ES neighbours and Hospice care team salute you, Gary.
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