SUUTARI , Marion Airlie Suutari (née Burton)

Airlie left us unexpectedly on August 15 at her home in Collingwood. Described best as possessing sisu—a Finnish word embodying resilience, grit, and tenacity—Airlie was universally recognized for her strength, warmth, caring, and selflessness.

The middle of three children of William and Georgina Burton, Airlie gave her brothers Jerome and Ian a run for their money, having no trouble outdoing them with a yo-yo or badminton racquet. That same sisu led her to graduate with her Wellesley nursing class (’58) despite being sidelined for months by a serious car accident, and she subsequently nursed the first surviving case of tetanus.

While at Wellesley she met Ray, the love of her life and husband of 62 years. With him, Airlie returned to Sudbury, learned to sail and ski, and raised their three daughters, Kirsti (Keith Barber, late Peter Lamy), Karen (Michael Fricker), and Lisa (Andrew MacKay), primarily in Lorne Park.

Summers were spent at “the camp” on Little Lake Penage, where Airlie, with an elegant dive, was always first in the lake. Later years brought a retirement move to Alliston, followed by a final chapter in Collingwood.

Airlie worked outside the home for MDS as a venipuncture specialist, often visiting homes to care for difficult cases—she never had to poke twice. Her hands also mastered weaving, knitting, and quilting, though neuropathy in later years challenged her craft. At home, she was a wise and caring role model, supporting her family in ways that encouraged them to thrive.

Her grandchildren—Andrew, Emma, Connor, and Will—were her pride and joy. Whether sharing newspaper clippings, discussing current events, or building Lego, she treasured time with them. She also grew close to her nieces and nephew, who admired her quiet strength.

A community-minded woman, Airlie and Ray volunteered with the National Cancer Institute. She taught nursery school, led Girl Guides, sang in the church choir, served as a church elder, and supported countless outreach efforts. She knit prayer shawls and led the outreach committee at Trinity United in Collingwood.

Her friends at Raglan were like family. She loved her community—whether it was delivering meals, sharing a bridge game, or simply being a kind neighbour.

Deepest thanks to her wound care team, especially Tracy. Airlie often acted as an informal clinical instructor for the many younger nurses who recognized her as one of their own.

A private funeral will precede a public gathering at a future date to celebrate a life well lived in the service of others.

Though Airlie loved flowers, her practical nature would prefer donations to the Canadian Cancer Society or another organization that supports the values of care and inclusivity she held dear.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” — Matthew 25:23

Memories and notes of condolence may be shared at Fawcett Funeral Homes.