MARION AIRLIE SUUTARI

(nee Burton, 1936 - 2025) Airlie left us unexpectedly on August 15, 2025, at her home in Collingwood. Described best as possessing sisu - a Finnish word embodying resilience, grit, and tenacity - Airlie was universally recognized for her strength, warmth, caring, and selflessness. The middle of three children of William and Georgina Burton, Airlie gave her brothers, Jerome and Ian, a run for their money, having no trouble outdoing them, be it with yo-yo or badminton racquet. The same sisu led her to graduate with her Wellesley nursing class ('58) despite being sidelined for months by a serious car accident, and subsequently nurse the first surviving case of tetanus. While at Wellesley she met Ray, to become the love of her life and husband of 62 years. With him, Airlie returned to Sudbury, learned to sail and ski, and raised their three daughters, Kirsti (Keith Barber, late Peter Lamy), Karen (Michael Fricker), and Lisa (Andrew MacKay), primarily in Lorne Park. Idyllic summers were spent at "the camp" on Little Lake Penage, where Airlie, with an elegant dive, was always the first in the lake. A retirement move to Alliston was followed by a final move to Collingwood. Airlie worked outside the home for MDS as a venipuncture specialist, often in home for people challenging to service; she never had to poke twice. Her dexterity was equally displayed in her skills as a weaver, knitter, and quilter, and a source of irritation as neuropathy touched her during treatment for the late-life lymphoma she defeated. At home in step with Ray, she was a wise and caring role model, loving and supporting her family in ways that encouraged them to meet their potential. Her grandchildren, Andrew, Emma, Connor and Will, were her pride and joy. Whether sharing newspaper articles and discussing current events or building Lego, she cherished time with them. She became increasingly close to her nieces and nephew, who appreciated her strength. Community minded, Airlie and Ray volunteered with the National Cancer Institute at the board/committee level. While she never sought the limelight, Airlie could always be found volunteering: at nursery school, teaching Girl Guides and weaving, singing in the church choir, standing as a church elder, and serving on numerous committees devoted to the greater good. Airlie's faith was constant. She was active with St. Stephen's-on-the-Hill in Mississauga, and with Trinity United in Collingwood where she knit prayer shawls and led the prayer chain, supporting others to the end. Unwaveringly principled, she championed inclusivity with an open mind consistent with her caring and generosity of spirit. Her Raglan family was dear to her. The many bridge and bid euchre games, visits, food deliveries (reciprocal, as she was a fine cook), community sharing and engagement - she was never alone even after losing Ray. Airlie was a thoughtful neighbour and supportive friend, as quick to appreciate as she was to deflect attention and credit. The family extends their sincere appreciation to her wound care team, especially Tracy. Airlie always watched their work with interest and frequently acted as a clinical instructor to her many younger nurses over the last six months. They recognized her as one of their own and loved having her in their care. A private funeral will precede a gathering at a future date to celebrate a life well lived in the service of others. As much as Airlie adored flowers, her practical side would have preferred donations to the Canadian Cancer Society or other charity that supports the caring and inclusivity she so valued. "Well done, good and faithful servant." Matthew 25:23 Friends may visit Airlie's online Book of Memories at www.fawcettfuneralhomes.com.