Robert Lee Sutherland, age 70, passed away peacefully on October 22, 2023, at his home in Somerset, Wisconsin. He was born on May 15, 1953, to Kenneth Sutherland and Marcella (Montpetit) in Stillwater, Minnesota.
Robert was preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth and Marcella; sister, Candice Anez; and infant son, Mark Andrew. He is survived by his loving family, wife, Janelle (Raleigh) Sutherland; children, John Sutherland, Dan Sutherland, Todd Sutherland; five beautiful grandchildren; sisters, Tammy Koenig, Tanya Brown; and brother, Perry Sutherland.
Robert and Janelle raised their boys in Somerset and spent their entire 46 years of married life there. After going to school for radio broadcasting and working briefly in Park Falls, Wisconsin, he married Janelle and worked for her family’s business, the River’s Edge. As a bartender, he frequently delighted customers by performing magic tricks in addition to crafting cocktails. Later, he transitioned to what his friends and family consider to be his true calling – an emergency dispatcher in Hudson, Wisconsin. Robert’s innate patience and calm demeanor truly shined in this role. He remained a dispatcher until his retirement at age 65.
Bobby was an avid Minnesota sports fan. With a particular affinity for baseball, he especially enjoyed watching the Twins and attending their games. He was a proud conservative and passionate about politics. Playing cards was one of his favorite pastimes: when he wasn’t playing Swoop with his siblings or poker with the guys, he thoroughly enjoyed beating his good friend, Troy at cribbage.
An aortic valve replacement he’d had in 2013 failed, which led to his illness in 2022. While his heart valve repair was very successful, he contracted ARDS while hospitalized, which caused pulmonary fibrosis. Bob had been fighting for 15+ months to breathe well, but his scarred lungs continued to deteriorate.
Robert will be remembered for his composure, his easy-going nature, his capacity for listening, keeping the peace, and his compassion for others. He was well-liked and respected in the community – a friend to all.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 AM Monday December 4, 2023, at St. Anne’s Catholic Church in Somerset, Wisconsin. Visitation will be held from 9:30-11 AM prior to Mass at the Church. In lieu of flowers memorials preferred to St. Anne’s in Somerset, or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.