SUTTON
GEORGE ROBERT HAMILTON
May 9, 1940 – March 5, 2016
George 'Sam' Sutton passed away at the age of 75 at his home with his wife and children by his side. This sincere and gentle man is now at peace with his Saviour Jesus. George will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 48 years, Margery, daughter Terri (Jean), son Bryan (Leigh), and grandchildren Brook, Landon and Allyssa. He is survived by one brother, Bob and four sisters: Margaret, Sylvia, Doris and Shirley along with their spouses and children. George is sadly pre-deceased by his parents James and Mary ‘Molly’ Sutton, step-father Fred Fellner, sister Diane, and brother Stan. George will be greatly missed by all his cherished family and friends.
He was born in Vancouver, BC, then as a young boy, grew up in Osoyoos, BC where he graduated from Oliver High School before attending U.B.C. where he graduated with a Bachelor of Education-Secondary. In 1985, he received a Master of Arts in Administration and Curriculum from Gonzaga University. The first 5 years of George’s teaching career were at Silver Creek Elementary School in Hope, BC, Seaview Elementary in Port Coquitlam, BC, and Nootka Elementary in Vancouver, BC. He ended up in Summerland, BC in 1968 where he taught at MacDonald Elementary. Eventually he became the Vice Principal at McDonald Elementary, then retired in 1997 as principal at Trout Creek Elementary. George was a long time, active member of Summerland Baptist Church. He was a Rotarian for 30 years and last fall he was made an honorary member of the Rotary Club.
He demonstrated his passion for history through the completion of his family tree and by compiling details and photos on the history of Summerland schools which he provided to the Summerland Museum. George was happiest when he was gardening, “puttering” around the house, and spending precious time with his children and grandchildren. He enjoyed one- on-one time with close friends and camping. He and his wife created fond memories dancing and travelling together. His family would like to thank the Kelowna Cancer Clinic, Dr. E. Allen, and Summerland Palliative Care nurses, Laurie and Lea. A Celebration of Life service will be held at 2 pm on Saturday, March 12th at Summerland Baptist Church, 10318 Elliot St., Summerland, BC. Donations in George’s honour can be made to the Canadian Cancer Society, 565 West 10th Ave., Vancouver, BC V5Z 4J4 or the Gideons International in Canada, P.O. Box 3619, Guelph, Ontario N1H 7A2. Condolences may be directed to the family through providencefuneralhomes.com.