Susan Mary Grout (nee Boyes)
Susan passed away on the morning of September the 15th, 2014. Before leaving this world, Sue spent several days in the ICU, followed by Hospice Care, at Royal Jubilee Hospital in Victoria. While there, she was continuously surrounded by the love of family and friends who came to see her - a testament to the fact that she touched the lives of so many.
Predeceased by her mother, Anne Louise Boyes, Sue is survived by her father, Dr. David A. Boyes (Margaret), her brother David (Judy), her niece Tiare, her sons, Matthew (Erica) and Angus (Erin) Grout, and her granddaughter, Morgan Grout. Sue also leaves behind her Partner Peter and his family (Rhea, Max, and Madeline.)
Sue was born on September the 27th, 1951, at Vancouver General Hospital. Growing up in West Vancouver, Sue spent an active childhood enjoying the outdoors. A favorite family memory is of Sue and her brother David paddle-boarding on the waterfront at their home on 16th street next to John Lawson Park. As the family followed the medical career of Dr. Boyes, the children also spent time in England, attending a private school and taking in the culture.
After graduating from West Van High, Sue entered the VGH nursing program before moving to Vancouver Island where she spent the next part of her life nursing, farming, and raising two busy boys with her then husband, Randy Grout. Sue made friends who became like family everywhere she went. Sue was actively involved for many years in a “running” group, which in later years morphed into a “walking / wine drinking group” comprised of dear and devoted friends. Loved and respected by so many, Sue was also involved in many local groups and organizations. An active member of the Green Party, Sue also spent time as director of the Comox Valley Credit Union, and devoted her time to volunteer efforts such as The Therapeutic Riding Program.
What many of us remember about Sue is her dedication to protecting the Environment. Wanting to “tread lightly on the Earth”, Sue dedicated the later part of her life toward living a “green” lifestyle. Sue built two cob dwellings, which she considered a labor of love. Again, she did this with a community of family and friends surrounding her.
Sue will be greatly missed by all who knew her. The family will be hosting a “celebration of life” to be held at D’Esterre House in Comox on Saturday, October the 25th, from 1-4pm. Please bring yourself and your favorite memories. At the family’s request, in lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Hospice Society at Royal Jubilee : 2621.thankyou4caring.org or to the Land Conservancy of BC:conservancy.bc.ca