Grant Sutherland

Grant Sutherland was a man of strength who loved his family dearly. From his boyhood days on the farm to the years of raising his own son, Grant was a faithful son, brother, husband and father. He was robust in his love for the outdoors at the same time that he was caring of those around him. Grant was always there for his family and friends.

Grant was born at a time when America was enjoying the peace and prosperity of post-WWII optimism. Growth in industry and jobs gave workers the opportunity to build homes and start families that launched the baby boom era. Grant was the third of three children born to Bernard, Jr. and Ruth (Scharping) Sutherland on June 18, 1953 in Plainwell, Michigan. As a child, he enjoyed an idyllic life on the farm with horses to ride and dogs to chase. He named all the animals and was especially fond of a little lamb that followed him around and became his pet. With his family, Grant also enjoyed traveling and going on road trips. It was good to be together.

Grant attended elementary and secondary school in Plainwell. In high school, he joined the wrestling team, where he developed the skill and discipline that served him well into his adult years. As evidence of his strength, Grant liked to have people sit on his back when he did push-ups.

While still in high school, Grant began working for Arcans, Inc. as a general laborer. After a few years, he moved over to Checkers Motors, building taxi cabs in Kalamazoo, Michigan. He returned to Arcans but, in 2003, that company closed as well. By then, Grant’s life had changed considerably.

In 1984, Grant had met Bridget Flynn through his brother Gary. Gary had arranged for Grant to meet his friend for a date. It didn’t work. Grant did not hit it off with her, but he did get acquainted with her friend Bridget. They developed a friendship that was built on long walks together, swimming, traveling and getting to know each other as best friends. Their relationship was firm and enduring by the time they pronounced their marriage vows on June 11, 1999 in Allegan, Michigan. Whether walking in the woods, canoeing on Gun River, camping or watching Grant’s favorite John Wayne movies, the two of them had a great life together.

Then, on March 6th 2001, Grant couldn’t have been happier than to welcome his precious son into their lives. What a delight to hold Lucas Flynn in his arms and cherish every moment they had together. Endearingly, Grant called Lucas “Buddy” or “Pumkin Wunkin” when he woke him up in the morning. They became even more inseparable when Grant became a stay-at-home dad with the closing of Arcan, Inc. Father and son played together all the time, walking the dogs, going swimming or just being with one another. They were the best of buddies.

Grant was a good friend to many people. He lent a hand to anyone who needed it. He was always willing and able, but even when he wasn’t able, he was still wanting to help others.

Grant’s family and friends were deeply saddened when he died suddenly at his home on December 23, 2007. He was 54 years old, yet he had lived a life full of the joys of family and friendships.

Grant will be sorely missed and lovingly remembered by his wife, Bridget and their son Luke; his father: Bernard, Jr. and Doris Sutherland of Plainwell; siblings: Barb Arcan of Kalamazoo and Gary and Linda Sutherland of Plainwell; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his mother, Ruth. Learn more about Grant, view his Life Story Film, and visit with his family on Sunday from 2-5 PM at the Life Story Funeral Home, RDMG, Plainwell, 120 S. Woodhams. Please visit Grant’s memory page at www.lifestorynet.com, where you can archive a favorite memory or photo, sign his guest book, or make a memorial donation in care of Bridget Sutherland for Lucas’ Education Fund.