Sturbridge: Parker D. "Sonny" Sutherland, 89, of Podunk Rd., passed away peacefully at home with his family by his side on Monday, July 29th.

He leaves his beloved wife of 63 years, Judyth A. (Gushee) Sutherland; three daughters, Lynda L. Roust of Bellingham, Karen J. Sutherland of Williamstown and Diane L. Partridge of Sturbridge; his son, Kenneth R. Sutherland and his wife Lynn of Charlton; his five grandchildren, David Partridge and his wife Christina, Allyson Partridge and her partner Carlos Aponte, Nicole Kosiba and her husband Jeffrey, Eric Sutherland and Kyleigh Sutherland; his cherished six great grandchildren, Jordyn, Julia, Henry, Parker, Max, Luke, many nieces and nephews, and his loyal companion, their little dog, Missy.  He was predeceased by his six sisters and three brothers.

Parker, known as Sonny from a young age, was the son of Carroll and June (Wilcox) Sutherland.  After being born and raised in Portage Lake, ME, Sonny enlisted in the United States Marine Corp serving honorably during the Korean War.    Upon discharge from the service, Parker moved to the metrowest area of Massachusetts, taking a job at the Roxbury Carpet Factory where he would meet his wife.  After a twenty year career with Data General as a Field Engineer, he kept busy throughout his retirement with several woodworking projects as well as a number of other fix-it tasks that always kept him engaged with helping others; no task was too big or too small.  Most importantly, he and Judy loved spending time at their summer home  on the lake  in Portage, ME, with their family and friends.

Papa was absolutely devoted to his grandchildren and great grandchildren.  He looked forward to all the sporting events and activities that they were involved in throughout their childhood.  The joy he felt watching them grow was immeasurable.

Whether he was called Parker, Sonny, Dad, or Papa, he will always be remembered for his quiet, thoughtful nature, his willingness to help others, his quick wit and wry sense of humor.

We will forever miss him.

Sonny was a member of the Portage Lake Association and the Portage Lake Historical Society.  Graveside services will be held at the Sutherland Family Cemetery, in Portage ME at the convenience of the family.  There are no calling hours.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Portage Lake Historical Society, P.O. Box 65, Portage Lake, ME 04768.

Daniel T. Morrill Funeral Home, 130 Hamilton St., Southbridge is directing the arrangements.