SUTHERLAND, Bruce Murray 'Suds'

Born: Sept. 24, 1945
Died: Dec. 26, 2024

“Life seems to go on without effort when I am filled with music.” ― George Eliot

Everyone who knew Bruce “Suds” Sutherland knows he lived a life filled with music; he passed away at home in his 80th year, surrounded by the love of his family and friends.

He is survived by loving wife of 55 years, Nancy, his three sons Tyler (Marie-Helene), Tavish (Andrea) and Toben (Erika), and grandchildren Ryder, Jevin, Cohen, Avie and Mila. They are joined in mourning their loss by the many friends, teacher colleagues, and former students whose lives were touched by Suds through his love of music and people.

Suds and his wife raised their kids at a recreational farm property on Bass Lake where he taught them all how to swim, canoe, water ski and generally enjoy the outdoors. His love for the outdoors also attracted him and his family to Lake Temagami where they spent time, both summer and winter, at a cabin there.

Suds was a graduate of the University of Toronto’s music program. He was a Phi Kappa Sigma fraternity brother to many solid souls. He began his teaching career in 1969 at Park Street Collegiate in Orillia. He taught music and French.

In 1972 Suds joined the staff of a brand new Twin Lakes Secondary School in Orillia as the music director. He introduced a variety of music to his students-from classical to contemporary ‘60’s and ‘70’s rock-and they returned his enthusiasm for music with an enthusiasm of their own. The school’s jazz and concert bands went on to win gold in competitions year after year.

Over the years, some memorable parties took place at the Sutherland property. For Suds and family, getting together with friends-often to jam and make music-was part of a good life. Suds loved to keep in touch with students and friends-and they with him. There are many of his friends who will tell you about a late night call from Suds just to say hello and reminisce.

The family would to thank all health care providers for the excellent support, especially Amy and Dr. Mora for providing the Christmas gift of instituting palliative care on Christmas day.

Suds will be cremated and a celebration of life and musical Jamboree will happen in the spring. Arrangements entrust to the Mundell Funeral Home.