William R. Sutherland
William “Bill” R. Sutherland, 83, of Charlotte, passed away Sunday, December 2, 2018. He was born May 7, 1935, in Lansing, the son of Frank and Doris (Rose) Sutherland. Bill graduated from Charlotte High School in 1953. He then went on to earn his bachelor’s degree from Michigan State University and his master’s degree in music education from VanderCook College of Music in Chicago. On June 8, 1963, Bill married the love of his life Charlene L. Dahn at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Bay City. Bill went on to teach music at Linden High School for 18 years and later retired from Charlotte High School after 14 years of serving as the band director. He served as the president of MSBOA for many years. Bill was honored to be chosen as Teacher of the Year by MSBOA. He also served as the organist for the Lawrence Avenue United Methodist Church for many years and played in numerous musical groups. Bill loved his job and never considered it a burden. He thought of it as more of a hobby. Bill cherished his students and took great interest in each and every one he was able to mentor.
Bill is survived by his wife of 55 years, Charlene; children, Brian Sutherland of Bay City, Leslie A. Gifford of Lansing, grandchildren, Alexander Sutherland, Amelia Sutherland; mother, Doris Sutherland of Charlotte; siblings, Dick (Jan) Sutherland of Coldwater, Dorene (Jim) Woolworth of Edmore; and numerous cherished friends and students.
He was preceded in death by his father, Frank Sutherland; and brother, Bradford Sutherland.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, December 8, 2018 at 11 a.m. at the Lawrence Avenue United Methodist Church, with Rev. Gary Wales officiating. The family received friends on Friday, December 7, 2018, from 5 to 8 p.m. at Burkhead-Green-Kilgo Funeral Home and one hour prior to the service on Saturday at the church.
Those desiring, may make contributions in Bill’s memory to the Lawrence Avenue United Methodist Church, 210 E. Lawrence Ave., Charlotte, MI 48813 or Eaton Community Palliative Care, 2675 S. Cochran Rd., Charlotte, MI 48813.
To view Bill’s obituary online or to leave a condolence for the family, please visit burkhead-greenfuneralhome.com.