Tribute

Agnes passed away peacefully surrounded by the love of her family and the loving staff at Sunnybank Center, at the age of 99.

Agnes moved to Oliver with her family in 1926. She attended school in the Little Red Schoolhouse where the School Board Office now sits. She participated in Drama and sports in high school. Love of nature found her roaming the hills on horseback with her brother Tom and friends.

Agnes moved to the Kootenays and married her first husband Peter MacDougal. Their daughter Sally was born in Nelson. Peter was in an industrial accident and died in 1938, leaving Agnes a widow with an 8 month old daughter. Agnes married Albert Sutherland and had three sons, Fraser, David and John. Albert gained a daughter who he said “came with the deal”. Agnes and Albert settled in Oliver in 1944.

While raising their family Agnes studied piano and gained her degree through the Royal Conservatory of Music. Through the encouragement of Dorothy Fraser, she began teaching piano lessons in both Oliver and Osoyoos. Many will remember gathering around the Grand Piano in her living room for music recitals. Agnes played for local events, the Oliver Choral society, churches and school operettas.

Art and pottery became another part of her life which she shared with many others. Agnes was involved with the formation of the Oliver Community Arts Council in the early 1960's and has been a key figure in promoting the arts and music in our community. Her legacy and her smile will live on forever.

Agnes was predeceased by her husband Peter, husband Albert, mother Georgiana Evans, father David Evans, granddaughter Laura Sutherland, brother Tom Evans, brother Clark Evans and very recently sister Esther Dawson.

Agnes will be deeply missed by her loving family, sister Evie New, sister Olive Barrett and brother David Evans (Jean). Her daughter, Sally Franks (Richard Burgess), Fraser Sutherland (Genniene), David Sutherland (Sieglinde), John Sutherland (Rene). Grandchildren, John Franks (Pam), David Franks (Kim), Fraser Sutherland (Lori), Tanis Sutherland, Jason Sutherland and Theresa Johnston (Barry) and 13 great-grandchildren

Agnes was Aunt and Great Aunt to many who will miss her. Agnes will be remembered by all as a fun and feisty lady who lived her life with passion.

Her pursuit of all her diverse interests and talents is an inspiration.

Agnes was known for her volunteering in the Community, her music, art and Letters to the editor. Credit goes to her for saving Conkle Lake, the Hike and Bike Trail, and standing up for her beliefs. Agnes served on many committees for the benefit of Oliver.

A celebration of life service will be held at 2:00 pm Saturday April 16, 2016 at the Oliver Seniors Centre.

In lieu of flowers please make your donations to the Oliver Community Arts Council, Po Box 1711, Oliver B.C. V0H1T0 in Memory of Agnes Sutherland to provide a permanent Memorial to honour Agnes.

Condolences and tributes may be directed to the family by visiting www.nunes-pottinger.com