(1928 - 2016)
Cystic Fibrosis Canada Volunteer Leader
In memoriam
We are saddened to share the news of the passing of Bob Sutherland (1928 – 2016) on Friday, February 26th. Bob was a successful lawyer for over 50 years and a cherished volunteer to Cystic Fibrosis Canada for over 45 years.
Bob provided pro bono legal services to Cystic Fibrosis Canada and gave his generous time to our organization with thoughtfulness, insight and honour, and set a standard of discipline, tolerance and generosity for everyone to follow. Those who worked alongside Bob regularly found need for his expert counsel and wise guidance. Bob’s community involvement did not go unnoticed and he received the Canadian Commemorative Medal and the Queen's Golden Jubilee medal.
National “Secretary” of the charity for close to 30 of his years of service, Bob advised on governance matters, wills and bequests, parliamentary procedure, employment standards issues, charity law and government reporting requirements, fundraising policies and gaming regulations. The charity’s body of policy took shape under his watch, and under his influence, its modes of operation acquired tone and direction.
During Bob’s years of support, the median survival age of children with cystic fibrosis in Canada changed from early school age, to around age 45, as young people with cystic fibrosis survived in ever increasing numbers into adolescence and then into adulthood.
Bob passed away suddenly last weekend at his Toronto home. His death represents a tremendous loss not only to his wife Jackie, and to his family, but to all who worked with him, who remember him, and who wish to follow his example.
