Only yesterday BT &MJS moved into Amesbury and who knew the power of a blueberry pie to establish a long and lasting relationship with our new neighbors?  Who knew we would move across the street to become their roof mates.   Who knew, as we looked at the blueprints of their plans for their new Florida condo, that we would be introduced to Naples, Florida? Who knew our travels with them would take us to New York, Quebec, Door County, Izatys  and even Duluth?
Only yesterday it was spring and we were talking of leave taking, of our transition to another season of life, traveling and enjoying retirement.  Who knew you could experience Izatys BBQ in shorts one hot humid night and  smoking cigars in our winter jackets the next night, amazed by the dozens of frozen flies on the patio screens that had been surprised by the sudden return of winter.  Who can forget the serenades of “We Wish You a Merry Christmas” sung in freezing cold while standing in our courtyard? Who knew the midnight planting of plastic Flamingos in the Sutherland courtyard would produce mysterious sandwiches - with pink feathers the next day?
Bruce was a tidy man. We still miss the sound of his vacuum in the garage as he cleaned out his cars. We miss the sound of the blower as he cleaned out his gutters and rid his courtyard of those messy ornimental  apples that seemed to be everywhere.  We miss his helping hands as he and Bob finished raking the final leaves from our common Maple tree that simply refused to drop its leaves with the rest of the trees.
For those who live on, there are goodbyes to be said and preparations to be made for our own summer or winter cycle of life.  Yet, in the midst of all our “comings and goings” it feels good to focused on the present moment to enjoy all our memories of BTS.   Bruce always had that special anticipation of life.  He enjoyed every day and looked forward to the next stage of life because, as he would say, “there is always something good about every part of your life.”
Love to you, Mary Jo, Ken, Lydia and all those beautiful descendants of BTS.  You are his legacy.  Your favorite "roofies", Marlys and Bob Wood

To all of the Sutherlands-

You know we are thinking of you and we are also thinking of Bruce and how he is now free from all suffering.  I found this quote which expresses our thoughts better than anything I could say:

He has achieved success who has lived well, laughed often, and loved much;
Who has gained the respect of intelligent men and the love of little children;
Who has filled his niche and accomplished his task;
Who has left the world better than he found it;
Who has looked for the best in others and given the best he had;
Whose life was an inspiration
Whose memory is a benediction

 - Robert Louis Stevenson

With love and sympathy-

Debbie, Dick and Laura

To MJ, Lydia, ken, mark and all the many grand kids . My prayers go out to all of you. Bruce was a special man, anyone that wears a blue bath robe every weekend most of the day is ok in my book. I was at the Sutherland a lot on the weekends , and I always said something to Bruce about the blue robe. Then MJ bought him a deferent color , sorry MJ it just was not  the same . I will miss him but now he and frank can spend Saint Patricks day together. Watch out heaven , love u all and see you soon , Bridget xo.

Mary Jo, We are in Naples but our thoughts and prayers are with you.
With deepest sympathy and love,
Kay and Jerry Martin

Bruce was godfather to our first child.  Mary Jo was a childhood friend who served as a bridesmaid for me.  They were a delightful couple and we continued our friendship when our paths crossed in Naples/Marco Island.  Mary Jo, you and your family have our deepest sympathy.  I know you are surrounded by those you love and that will help ease the loss.

Syd and Jim Mellinger

Bruce was living at Sunrise when I met him while I was dining there with my own parents. The dignity with which he bore his illness was impressive and that was what drew me into conversations with him. Then I met Mary Jo. Their closeness was evident as they continued their daily rituals together.  Later, I became aware of how Bruce treasured being able to visit with his children when they came to spend their time with him. 

May the Bruce's family find great comfort through remembering the joy that their loving time and attention brought to him. And, hold his goodness in your hearts as you move forward.

My Dad spent his final months at Sunrise of Minnetonka.  I want to thank all the staff for the care and love they gave him and our family. He couldn't have been treated with greater respect and dignity, our family will always be thankful to the wonderful Sunrise staff. - Lydia

I did not know Bruce - yet I know of PSP.  My heart is with you all at this time.

OBITUARY

Bruce Taylor Sutherland

15 October, 1930 – 8 March, 2013

Kapala-Glodek-Malone Funeral Home

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