Gary Sutherland

Gary Sutherland, 80, was born on September 27, 1944 in Glendale, California. As a young man, he enjoyed spending time with his brothers and sister. They had an active life of sports activities and were well-known in the area because of their successes.

Gary met Karen Kent, the love of his life, in junior high. They first met as dance partners then became best friends. Gary often had dinner at Karen's home where he grew to love Karen's mom, Arlie, and her family. Gary and Karen were married in 1964 and soon after, their daughters, Jill, Lori, and Teri, were born. After moving to Monrovia, Gary and Karen were active in the community. They volunteered time in their daughters' schools and were passionate about helping the children of Monrovia. Gary supported Karen in all her volunteer activities, including developing the Boys & Girls Club and helping Joanne Spring with her Monrovia Reads non-profit.

After high school, Gary attended the University of Southern California on a baseball and basketball scholarship. He often joked that he would have been better at basketball had he been taller, but he could still outjump the taller players. In 1964, he was selected to play on the USA Baseball team in the Tokyo Olympics and made his major league debut for the Philadelphia Phillies in 1966. He was the starting 2nd baseman for the Montreal Expos expansion team in 1969, and eventually played 13 seasons in the major leagues, bringing his family along on his journey, before retiring in 1978. During his career, he was known for having a broad range of skills and was renowned for his finesse in turning double plays.

After his playing career ended, he stayed involved with baseball starting as a scout and retiring as the special assistant to the general manager of the Angels, where he had responsibility for all major league scouting and advance work.

Gary was a kind and generous man, who built life-long friendships and was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. He is survived by his wife Karen, their three daughters, three granddaughters, and one great-granddaughter.

Funeral will be held in Monrovia, California. The family appreciates all the love and support his friends and fans have given us.