Flora “Sue” Sutherland

On February 12, 2025, the Skate Thompson community lost one of its brightest lights. Flora “Sue” Sutherland, our beloved coach, mentor, friend, and guiding force, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by the family she adored. Born on May 23, 1954, in Flin Flon, MB, Sue built a life defined by resilience, creativity, and an unwavering dedication to the sport she loved.

A Legacy on the Ice

Sue spent 52 years in Thompson, shaping the lives of more than 10,000 athletes and fellow coaches. Her passion for figure skating was matched only by her gift for connecting with people. Whether she was teaching a beginner their first edges or guiding a competitive skater through a breakthrough moment, Sue had a remarkable ability to make every athlete feel seen, supported, and capable. Her influence lives on in the countless skaters who carry her lessons, on and off the ice, into their own lives.

A Love Story Born at the Rink

It was at the Thompson rink that Sue met her husband, Alex “Suds” Sutherland. She was a figure skater, he a hockey player - something she fondly described in her final days as “straight out of a movie.” Together, they shared more than 50 years of partnership, navigating life’s highs and lows with humour, loyalty, and deep love.

A Creator in Every Sense

Sue’s creativity extended far beyond the rink. A gifted artist, she expressed herself through pottery, painting, fibre arts, and countless handmade creations. She poured that same creativity into her family, crafting birthday cakes, sewing special outfits, and infusing everyday moments with beauty and care. Her artistry was simply another way she loved the people around her.

Loved and Remembered

Sue is deeply missed by her husband, Suds; her daughters, Ashley (Justin Gagnon) and Shanleigh (Troy Anderlik); and her cherished granddaughter, Roreigh. She is lovingly remembered by her sister Louise Rideout; sisters and brothers‑in‑law Lorna Heuchert, Fanny and Donny Mullin, and Alvin and Joyce Sutherland; her nieces and nephews; and many lifelong friends.

Celebrating Sue’s Life

In honour of her lifelong commitment to young skaters, a memorial trust has been established to fund an annual scholarship for Thompson athletes.

Donations may be made by contacting:

suesutherlandmemorialaward@gmail.com

“Make it good.”

In her final days, Sue was asked how best to spend one’s life. Her answer was simple and profound:

“Make it good.”

Her spirit, her kindness, and the love she shared will remain forever woven into the fabric of Skate Thompson.