I knew Aunt Sue for almost my entire life.  One of my memories when I was younger is of Sue and my mom starting their Christmas shopping together on Remembrance Day as they both had it off being bank employees.  Later on as an adult, Sue shared cooking tips and recipes with me, as she was an excellent cook.  Sue also loved to garden and shared many gardening suggestions with me.  Sue taught me the benefit of bargain shopping - she was always on the hunt for a deal!  
Chris and Sue were very good to me after my parents passed away - a kindness I will never forget.  Sue was, at her heart, one of the kindest people I've ever known.
My deepest condolences to Chris, John and Christine.  I'll miss Sue and her great laugh a lot!

Susan was a loving niece, godchild, friend and patron of the arts.  I don’t think Sue missed any of my art shows, until last year due to ill health.

Gardening was a joy and her green thumb delighted friends and neighbours. 

Baking Christmas cookies and squares for family was an annual event and always appreciated.  Sue joined the Richmond Hill wood working shop and made an impression on her fellow wood workers by encouraging clean up at the end of the day.

Her illness curtailed some activities but she never failed to send cards and greetings.  Thank you Sue for brightening our lives.  

Love,

Aunt Betty

Sue was straightforward, did not beat around the bush, my kind of people, kind of like Clare but with far more diplomacy : )

Sue I love you so much.  We three sisters were always there for each other through thick and thin.  We spent summers at the cottage together as kids and later with our families. Sue taught me to drive a stick shift on the dirt roads at the cottage in our 1960 Austin Cambridge when I was 14.  She would often drive us and our friends into Orillia to the A&W for a night snack. Sue was patient like our Dad.  When Sue started working she would come home with little gifts for us, because she loved giving.  

We are so happy that Sue found Chris, the love of her life. Chris fit perfectly into our family always joking with our Mom and helping our Dad.  The cottage was the place where we played cards or a board game every night and laughter always filled the room.  Soon Johnny came along and then Christine.  Sue adored her family and showered them with love.  She was so proud of both of them in their achievements as adults.  

Sue loved animals. It was because of Sue that we got our first dog, Lassie.  Lassie was a pup in the litter our neighbour’s dog had. Sue bugged our Mom until she finally told Sue to go and get
one.  Sue rescued a stray cat she found in the parking lot at her work and adopted another cat that belonged to Chris’ boss who passed away and then came a third cat.  Later came their dog, Pippen.  
 
Sue taught me about gardening and I will think of her always when I enjoy my gardens.  Sue always visited with a container of her amazing baking.  I would keep it in the freezer to save for special occasions until one time when I pulled out the container and it was empty!  Over time John had eaten everything, frozen, so I wouldn’t catch him!   

Sue never felt sorry for herself as her health deteriorated.  She always had a huge smile on her face which remained until her passing. Sue was a great example of strength and courage that I can only hope to emulate.

I miss you  Sue.  I am comforted knowing you are free and at peace.
Love Laurie & John

Sue,
I miss you and I miss your infectious laughter. In my years of friendship with Johnny, you have always been so kind to me. There was always an open invitation for me in your home, and an extra place setting for me at the dinner table. 
I can’t believe this past Christmas was the last holiday I’d spend with you. Even in the photo, you are the one with the biggest smile. You truly are an inspiration to live life to its fullest, to enjoy every moment and to always laugh. 
May you rest you in peace.

My mom loved visiting her family.  She was happiest when she was surrounded by those she loved. 

Like my Nanny there was always room to add more people to the dinner table to join any celebration whether it be family or friends.  I feel lucky to have lived in a family where this generous spirit was everyday 

 Mom’s had many hobbies.  Although we didn’t share a love of shopping, we both loved animals and baking.   I will cherish my time with her on our animal adventures.  She always said yes when I suggested an animal excursion whether it was taking pictures with bears, sitting on alligators,  brushing  rhinos, walking with wolves or feeding giraffes.  

I have always loved card and board games and I was lucky that my parents would play with me.  My favourite memories are of laughter and stories around the table.  I learned a lot about them as people and later as friends during our games.  Even in the last few weeks at the  home, my mom played a few hands of 3 handed euchre with me and dad.

Although her disease ultimately took her away from me,  it also brought us closer together and as a caregiver allowed me to visit my extended family more.  Their added support during this time has been unwavering and unconditional.  It means the world to me.

I will miss you mom more than you will ever know.   Love you forever.  

Christine xoxo

The week before Sue's stroke, she phoned me one evening.  I took the call in my workshop.  Still a relatively new arrival to her extended family, I was pleasantly surprised to hear from her.  She had noted my long time passion for antique cars.  She was also aware that her Uncle Murray had a workshop manual for Model A Fords that he no longer required.  She wanted to know if I'd like it before the family parted with it.  As I had my own copy of that manual, I thanked Sue for her considerate thought.  I later learned that this was so typical of Sue: thinking of others.  She will be missed!

It is tough losing Sue.

I can still picture her so fit and gorgeous in her bikini at the cottage: arm wresting the boys who flocked around her – and winning!

She was her father’s girl: helping when he needed added muscle – water-skiing beautifully when he didn’t.  And when Clare beckoned, she was a hard worker: peeling potatoes, shucking corn, doing dishes… 

As an adult in hospital for a surgery that women then kept mum about, I had a particularly upsetting experience one day.  Who was the angel who appeared at my bedside exactly when I needed one? Susan.  And she was the perfect consoler.

Throughout the last twenty years, her body increasingly stole her strength, her motor skills, her vocal ability, even the ability to swallow and enjoy the odd cup of coffee that she so savoured.  But Sue’s was true strength of character.  She displayed such dignity and smiled patiently through all of what must have been so frustrating.  

It was a pleasure when Chris and Christine brought her out to Burlington for our ‘GameDays’: playing Scattergories, Sequence, Euchre; often with her wonderful baking to sweeten things even more.  Sue’s generous nature frequently  included bringing me a new pair of earrings, because she knew how much I like my bling.  Now, every morning when I select my earrings for the day, whether it’s hers I select or not, I think of Sue.

There is another example of her indomitable will and hardworking nature that will stay forever in my mind.  It was a pre-COVID family reunion with a number of us helping to clean up the kitchen.  Sue, who could no longer stand unaided, was washing the dishes: while holding herself up with one arm leaning on the sink counter.  I tried to get her to let me wash instead: no way would she let me!

No member of our LaChapelle family can think of potato salad without thinking of Sue! She set the standard for excellence.  Thank goodness we have Sue's recipe for Potato Salad in our Family Cookbook!

My Cousin, Susan Rowe, was a wonderful person and was a happy person.  I never heard her complain as I grew up.  Her large smile always made you eager to talk with her, because you felt she wanted to know how you were.  She loved her family and always asked how
your children were doing.  I spoke on the phone with her and even
though she had trouble doing so, Susan would try to speak with you until it became difficult for her, but she would always tell you politely that she had to go.  I know she is in a better place and I also know she will light up heaven with your beautiful smile.  Love Judy Rowe

The photo I've shared is when Aunt Sue won the jelly bean contest and clothes pin contest at my wedding shower. No one else had a chance ;)

My dear Susan,
The world is not the same without you, but I am grateful for the time we had together. I will always remember your kindness and your encouragement when I started my career. You were always the one to tell me that I could do it, and I think it's safe to say that I've done it because of you. I will always remember your smile and cherish the sheer positivity you radiated. The love we shared remains unbreakable.

To Sue,

No words can describe the hole missing in my heart knowing you are not here with us. I remember when you told John that “I’m a kind and nice young man but, I’m not a fan of his nose ring.” You never failed to make me smile and laugh whenever we would come on the weekends to have lunch. 

One of my fondest memories of you is when you taught me how to play sudoku. I recall you handing me a sheet cut from the papers and showing me how to fill the squares. To my surprise, I proudly finished that sheet swiftly. I was immediately humbled after you had gone over the game and showed me all the mistakes I made. We had a good laugh after that. I will forever cherish that memory and always remember you taught me how to play. 

Although we didn’t have the opportunity to verbally communicate, your infectious smile spoke a thousand words. 

I am beyond grateful for the time I’ve gotten to know you and the acceptance you’ve given me into the family. You’ve always treated me like family and although you weren’t my birth mother, I’ve always seen you as a second mom to me. 

Coming up to visit on the weekends were very special as I got to see you but most importantly, have you smile as Miso jumped up to your lap and give you endless ear licks. I know you loved animals and our dogs, so anytime I got to bring Miso made my heart full. 

I’ve recently taken interest in flower arranging, inspired by your love and dedication to your beautiful garden. While you are no longer here physically, I am reminded of your love, kindness and smile through the arrangements I’ve made and all of natures gifts. 

You taught me to appreciate what I have and hold close to the things that matter most. You’ve also taught me to not take everything so seriously and enjoy life. Forever grateful for you and I will miss you greatly. I will do my best to take care and love the family as you have always done.

I love you mommy Sue 🩵

“I’ll remember the love that you gave me”

As I sit here today, reflecting on Sue, my mind is drawn to her kitchen. I cherish the memories of 
canning strawberry jam and baking Christmas desserts from hand written recipes. I am thankful for Sunday dinners of glazed ham with Yorkshire pudding and Friday night pizza. I smile at the mildly competitive card games around the table. I miss the conversations there - pearls of wisdom peppered with shocking things only Susan would say. I realize now that, much like that tidy and organized kitchen, Sue was the heart of the home and family. I am so honoured to be welcomed in, fed and loved by her.

Dear Christine
You are an incredible person and  today it was clear to see that you come by it honestly. Your mother was a special woman, and you have a special family.  The celebration was a beautiful tribute to her. In honour of your mother, Mark and I have made a donation to Ataxia Canada. Our heartfelt condolences. 
Andrea Riekstins and Mark Shred

Dear Chris, John & Christine,
I am so sorry for your loss, Sue was lovely, she was a genuine & lovely person. 
Carole

We have enjoyed a wonderful friendship with our neighbours of 34 years. We miss Susan. We are grateful for the friendship, the learning, the kindness and of course the baking.  Susan would always be ready for a cup of tea and was a good listener.  As neighbours we hosted dinners around Christmastime taking a turn every other year.  We also shared the same anniversary so we went out for dinner annually to celebrate. Whenever the Rowes had a gathering the leftover potato salad Susan made came to our house. When our plants lacked attention Susan would sneak over and apply her extensive gardening touch to dead head our neglected plants.  She could not help but save the flowers. She had to rescue them. She gifted us beautiful crochet blankets.  She chose to be positive in place of discouragement which made her a role model; she faced adversity with courage and will be remembered for her sweetness.

Sending all my love and condolences to Chris, John and Christine and to Jo-Ann and Laurie. I always looked forward seeing Susan at our Rowe family parties. I was drawn to her kindness and humour. All of us have so many wonderful memories to hold within in our hearts.

Chris, my sincere condolences to you and your family.  So sorry for your loss.

Growing up as Christine’s bestie gave me the added benefit of getting to know her welcoming and generous family. Sue was always happy to have Christine’s friends over, made me feel welcome and like a part of the family. No matter if it was Friday night pizza and a movies,  a Christmas sleepover, or spending time up at the cottage. Some of my fondest memories!

I will always remember the big smiles that Sue would give, how she loved with her whole being. Every zoo visit would have animals gravitating to Sue, the birds would flock to her garden, as they could tell she had a warm heart. 

My family and I will miss her greatly.

We have been neighbours with Chris and Sue for many  years and our children are about the same ages. Today we are deeply saddened 
by news of Sue's passing. We offer our most sincere condolences to 
Chris, John and Christine. 

We remember that Sue was an avid gardener. Her back and front 
yards were adorned with colourful, luscious flowers every spring & 
summer. Being awarded Richmond Hill's  Front Garden Recognition 
several times attested to Sue's artistry with her flower gardens.

Sue was a bird lover too. She was able to attract all kinds of song birds to her backyard. Beacause of that, we had benefitted from 
watching  the avian acrobatics over her yard.

Recently we saw Sue less and less outside, as her health challenges 
increased. But everytime we met her, she was warm, friendly and 
cheerful. We will miss Sue's sunny disposition, and It is our honour 
to have known her. 

Chris,
I am so saddened to hear of the passing of your beloved Sue.  While I never met her, I heard so many wonderful stories and antics about her from you.  

Each spring, when my irises miraculously reappeared, I thought of her (many years ago, she was doing a purge/cull of some flowers in her garden, and I was one of the lucky recipients).  I tried to find a photo of them in bloom, but could not, but they are beautiful, with several different hues of purple.  

Thinking of you and the rest of your family at this tough time.

Jen Cole




   

My deepest heartfelt condolences to Chris, John, Christine, and the rest of Sue’s family.
It’s taken me a while to put my thoughts to paper to write a brief note about my dear friend, who lived such a full life, despite the challenges she faced in her later years.
Sue, and I met in the late 1970’s when I joined Online Services a department at TD Bank this was before she became pregnant with Christine.  
Our friendship stood the test of time. Sue and Chris attended my wedding in 1983.
After I left the department, our friendship continued to flourish  with regular lunches downtown,
sharing stories about the changing roles in our jobs, the challenges we faced as mothers with our growing families and how our children’s lives were unfolding. I commiserated with Sue when both her parents passed, attending the visitations and Sue and Chris did likewise when my older sister passed away then a few years later when my mom passed away.
I was so grateful for their support during those times of painful loss.
Even after Sue left the bank we kept in touch, and I would look forwards to dropping by her home on a Summer’s Day, sitting in the garden and admiring the results of her ‘green thumb’ as we sampled the lovely delicacies that she had prepared.
When Sue experienced a prolonged life-changing illness some years ago, I thought of her often and prayed for her recovery. I was so grateful that Chris kept everyone posted as to her care and recovery.
Sue and I continued to keep in touch via emails and updates on Facebook. I always looked forwards to exchanging yearly Christmas cards with her, I shall forever cherish the one I received last Christmas.
Sue was always so positive despite her health challenges; I can’t recall her ever complaining about her lot in life. I am so thankful to have known this beautiful and kind lady and sharing such a special friendship with her for so many years. May she rest in peace.



Sue was always kind and positive.  She never said anything negative about anyone. She never complained and always had a beautiful smile on her face. 
Our sincere condolences to Chris, Christine and John. Also to Sue's loving sisters Jo-Ann and Laurie.
Fondly, Laura and Keith Lewis

Dear Chris and family,
 
I was saddened to hear of your wife's passing. 
My heart goes out to you and your family during this hard time. 

Take care of each other
Kim Moyles

I am so sorry to hear of Susan’s passing. She dealt with deteriorating health, from too young an age with such a positive attitude. I met her in high school. She was such a great athlete! I only saw Susan at school reunions but we connected on Facebook years ago and she also started sending forwards to my email address on a regular basis. They were a combo of interesting, beautiful and entertaining. I always enjoyed opening them. She stopped a few months back and I heard through Peggy Thomson that her health had deteriorated further. She was so positive and upbeat  in spite of everything she dealt with for so many years. A very special person  with whom I’m glad to have crossed paths. 

The picture tribute to Sue’s life was just beautiful. Always that big smile!  Even faced with such adversity she found her joy in the moment. A special lady. 
Heaven’s gain was earth’s great loss.
My most sincere condolences to her family and friends.


53 years ago, a group of guys riding motorcycles, with a few in a car, rode along the beach road on north shore of Lake Simcoe looking for the Rowe cottage. We had spent the previous night sleeping on one of their Aunt’s beach and were beginning to despair our search might be in vain. As the road drew to an end and we rounded the very last corner we spied a cottage and rumbled to a stop.

We were searching for one of our friends who might be staying there, and instead I found the love of my life.

I first saw Sue sunbathing on the dock, and from her vantage point she heard the clumping of footsteps and looked up to see a couple of strangers walking along the dock.

Kismet.

About 3 and a half years later we were married on May 13th 1972. Some might have hesitated on picking the 13th, but it was the luckiest day in my life.

Sue I miss you terribly, but you will always be with me in my heart. Simple events like birds singing, leaves rustling, the soft sound of rain drops falling in the yard, the blossoming of all the flowers in your gardens, a cooling breeze that wafts unexpectedly, they all bring you back to me and I know you are still near.

Your life and my life were intertwined and woven together so as one we journeyed along our path of happiness for many, many years. We were both fortunate to have shared our lives together.

I will always miss your constant smile and the sound of your laugh.

Love forever

Chris


Dear Chris, John and Christine
Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this most difficult time. 
Love
Bob and Sue Kelsey

The animal whisperer Florida.
You can’t get much cuter.
Ted Barnard 

I will miss Susan’s beautiful smile and laugh. She was an incredibly strong person who voiced her opinion and stood up for what she believed in. Her moral character was a shining example for others. That lives on in John and Christine today. Sue always put others first above herself.  Her only fault was that she didn’t watch football for 7 hours with us on Sundays. I don’t understand why.
Sue loved animals and her interaction with them was a sight to see. They seemed to gravitate to her like magic. I called her the animal whisperer after our many animal adventures in Florida.
We had so many good times at the Sunday dinner table. Although every once in a while she would give me that scary stare to keep me in line! 
Sue was my chocolate lover buddy. We will never forget the time when Chris asked her what kind of cake she wanted for her birthday and she replied “ a BIG one “. Yes, she was a witty as Chris.

May Susan’s memory be a blessing to her family and all of the people who had the pleasure of knowing her.




I know you will miss Susan greatly. She was a lovely person and I’m sure you have beautiful memories of her. 
I have many fond memories of her from high school. She was such a sweet person. She also sent me many emails over the years that were interesting, beautiful and funny just as she was. Farewell my friend. 

Susan is good mother&good wife's she always put the family first she will be miss.

My Mom loved life and her family above everything else. She took her role as mother and wife as paramount. She loved my father unconditionally, she loved all of our extended family and friends, including all animals great and small - her heart extended to all of gods creatures, her compassion was immense. She will never be forgotten. She made me who I am today, and her family was of prime importance to every decision she made in her life. Her impact on my life , my sister, and my father is unmeasurable. She will be missed for the rest of my life as a piece of me will be forever missing. I will miss her smile, her laugh, her comfort when I was sad or sick, her advice when I was unsure, and her always being there for me no matter what. Mom I miss you so much. ❤️💔

My deepest condolences to the Wigham family.  Sue, you have fought a very long battle;  may you rest in peace.  I will miss your everlasting smile.  

To the Wigham Family:

My deepest condolences to all of you as I just learned of Susan's passing.  

I worked with Susan at TD Bank for several years in the mid 90's until I moved to the U.S.  I have fond memories of Susan and of our daily lunches together.    Her family meant so much to her and I know her memories will live on in each of you.

Sincerely

Cindy Gillani

Sue received the loving care that she so deserved from her devoted family. She battled a long illness with dignity. May she Rest in Peace. She will be greatly missed. 
Love Laurie Aguanno (Young)

                                           My Sister Sue
Always smiling
Ready and willing to help anyone
Loved company and was a fantastic host
First into a party kitchen and one of the last to leave
Delivered great first aid then fainted
A very good athlete
A Wonderful Sister


My very deepest condolences to your family. I haven’t seen Sue in quite a long time but I remember her fondly. Again my heart goes out to all of her family and friends.  Sincerely, Moira Connelly. 

AVIS DE DÉCÈS

Susan Wigham

20 novembre 1949 – 1 septembre 2023

Kane-Jerrett Funeral Homes

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