January 24, 2024
In Loving Memory (1943-2024) ~
Sue answered her call to heaven peacefully on Wednesday, January 24, 2024 with her family at her side at the age of 80.
At 19, this curly hair blond kissed her parents Vivienne and James Haythorthwaite goodbye and boldly boarded a boat (yes a boat! aptly named the Empress of England) destined for Canada from her birthplace of Accrington England.
Upon arrival in Calgary Alberta, this remarkable woman quickly made a career of breaking down barriers in what was a mans world of Banking. With the Royal Bank of Canada, Sue quickly worked her way up the corporate ladder. Continuously promoted over her 30+ year career into positions never previously held by a female.
From becoming Branch Manager at the age of 29 to taking early retirement at age 53 from her position as Area Manager overseeing ten branches and hundreds of employees. Even more impressive than her career was her simultaneous achievements in her personal life: Sue met and married a lankly and adventurous George who wandered up to her teller wicket one day.
The two, who have enjoyed 56 years of marriage, were brave enough to take financial risks buying an acreage west of Calgary and a cabin in Half Moon Bay on Sylvan Lake Alberta at a young age.
In these homes, they built an incredible life for their two children Jennifer (Rob) and Jonathan (Stephanie) who later provided their five grandchildren: Isaac (25), Veronica (19), Brady (15), Jackson (14) and Jade (7). In addition to sharing enormous pride in their family, Sue and George shared a love for waterskiing, boating, snow skiing, golfing, traveling, cooking and entertaining friends.
In retirement Sue loved spending the winters in Arizona with George and their massive network of Snowbird friends. In the summers they cherished spending time with their grandchildren at the lake. Most especially hosting large family dinners followed by a sunset boat cruise with a glass of red wine.
The key to Sue's incredible success in her business and personal life was undoubtedly her ability to work extremely hard while never taking herself too seriously. She frequently shared her most embarrassing moments as epic stories bringing laughter to all those that knew her. This was her way of connecting with all, reminding her coworkers, friends, children and grandchildren that we are all human and imperfect.
She encouraged all to be serious about living life to its fullest without taking ourselves too seriously. She loved everything life offered...except maybe Merlot or Pinot Noir. Sue was predeceased by her Brother John and Sister Audrey. As well as her beloved (and spoiled) dogs Max then Tessa whom she happily and religiously walked twice a day for thousands of miles.
A Celebration of Sue's Life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that anybody interested make a donation to the Sylvan Lake Urgent Care Center via cheque mailed to Sylvan Lake & Area Urgent Care Committee, Box 8985 Sylvan Lake, AB T4S 1S6.
Condolences, memories and photos may be shared and viewed at www.parklandfuneralhome.com
Arrangements in care of Parkland Funeral Home and Crematorium, 6287 - 67 A Street (Taylor Drive), Red Deer. 403.340.4040.