Obituary of Thomas J Sutherland

T.J. “Pete” Sutherland, of Melbourne, Florida, entered into eternal life at the age of 92, on June 12, 2020. He was under hospice care at Cape Canaveral Hospital when he peacefully passed in his sleep, from complications of prostate cancer, with family by his side. Many thanks to the team from Hospice of Health First for his safe deliverance to the Kingdom of God, which was his final request and a true blessing for us all.

Pete was of strong faith, studied the bible and volunteered over the years for various ministries. He was proud of and loved his two daughters. He had a passion for cars and a lifelong career in the auto industry. As a VW parts and service district manager, he traveled the state of Florida.

He enjoyed Big Bands, Rat Pack and opera style music, singing, reading Stuart Woods mysteries, tennis, jokes and dogs. His favorite shows were Cash Cab, Judge Judy and he loved any comedy. In his younger years he worked as a DJ and performed comedic skits. Pete will be remembered for his full head of silver/white hair, singing voice and sharp-witted sense of humor. Life is better with laughter, a sense of humor and the sound of music.

His family would like to thank the staff at Trinity Towers, Health First Private Duty and his caregivers, who enabled him to continue to live independently in his later years. At Trinity Towers he enjoyed the million dollar view to the north, overlooking the river and space center. Pete viewed the recent Falcon 9 rocket launch, which returned men into space from Brevard County.

Per his wishes, a private celebration of life with spreading of his ashes will be held at his birthplace, Niagara-On-The-Lake Ontario, Canada, at a later date.

Pete will be dearly missed by his family and friends.

As a supporter of veterans, Pete requested donations be made to the Veterans Memorial Center in Merritt Island, Florida or a charity of your choice.