It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Suzanne Sarault on May 24, 2022, at 68 years of age (Ottawa, Ontario). Suzanne leaves behind her spouse, RCMP Commissioner Robert H. Simmonds (Rtd.), her nieces Karine and Valérie Gauthier as well as her spouse’s children Elizabeth (Fred Webber) and Robert Jr. (Cathy Simmonds). Suzanne is predeceased by her father, Moe Sarault, her mother, Yvette Sarault (Larabie) and her sister, Nicole.
Suzanne was a distinguished executive public service employee and an outstanding leader and mentor. She served many federal departments and agencies for more than 36 years. She was a life-long volunteer and had a deep desire to be of service to others. Suzanne was especially passionate about her work with Veteran organizations including the RCMP Veterans’ Association, Canadian Association of Veterans in United Nations Peacekeeping, Korean War Veterans Association of Canada and Veterans Affairs Canada. She supported events for Heritage Canada, was host of the National Capital Open - Support our Troops of the PGA of Canada MacKenzie Tour (2014-2016) and was Emcee at numerous events national and local events including the City of Ottawa.
Suzanne was awarded the Sovereign’s Medal for Volunteers in 2018, was an Honorary Member of the Korea Veterans’ Association (Unit 7) and Executive Member of the RCMP Veterans’ Association (Ottawa Division), was the 2017 RCMP Ottawa Division Veteran of the Year, and an Alumni of the Association of Professional Executives of the Public Service of Canada.
Suzanne was vibrant and determined, she radiated confidence and lived her life with enthusiasm and grace. She loved to sing, dance, paint and play golf. She was the joy of Bob’s life, a caring and compassionate matante and a faithful friend. She will be truly missed.
A memorial service will be held at Beechwood, Funeral, Cemetery and Cremation Services, 280 Beechwood Avenue, Ottawa, on Wednesday, June 8 at 1 p.m. Family and friends are invited to visit from 11 a.m. The family strongly encourages mask wearing.
In memoriam donations may be made to: Lung Cancer Canada https://www.lungcancercanada.ca or to the RCMP Veterans’ Historical Wall Project (RCMP National Memorial Cemetery, Beechwood Cemetery) https://ottawadivisionvaweb.site/rcmp-veterans-historical-wall-2/
Digital Guestbook
Alex Geddes
Belinda Briones
My condolences to Anne's family. I volunteered with her at various events with the Canadian Heritage. She was a wonderful person and will be missed. May you rest in peace Suzanne. My thought and prayers are with your husband and family.
Gary Warnock
So very sorry to hear this news. I have such fond memories of working with Suzanne - she was always dedicated and professional, but always fun, with such an infectious laugh. Sending my sincerest sympathies.
Noella Dubé
C'est avec beaucoup de chagrin que j'ai appris le décès de Suzanne qui était pour moi une amie précieuse. Comment ne pas me souvenir de tous les bons moments que nous avons passés ensemble. Suzanne était ma partenaire de golf, jeu qu'elle adorait. Elle était une personne formidable qui répandait la joie sur son passage. A Bob et Karine mes sympathies les plus sincères
DONALD ROY
Condolences to Suzanne's family. I first met Suzanne in early 2000s when she came to National Defence public affairs where she worked as Acting ADM. When I got home one evening to tell my wife about my new boss, Lise (née Larabie) was pleasantly surprised and announced that she was her cousin. Suzanne left DND to work in another Department when a new ADM was appointed. Lise and I kept running into her at Veterans Affairs ceremonies (until COVID) when we would update on people we knew and what was happening in DND, and the two ladies would talk of the family and the old days. She was a good friend - I will miss her infectious laugh.
Monique Lortie
Mes plus sincères condoléances à toute la famille J'ai fait du bénévolat avec Suzanne lors de divers événements organisés par la CCN et Patrimoine Canada. Suzanne était une personne très dévouée, sympathique et très intéressante à discuter avec. Repose en paix ma chère Suzanne et on ne t'oubliera jamais.
Wendy Nicol
I met Suzanne after I retired from the RCMP and took over, from her, as the editor of The Spirit. Through many a long phone call we got it just the way we wanted it. She started as my mentor, and soon became my friend. She had energy, passion and vision. A gift to those of us who had the opportunity to spend time with her and get caught in the whirlwind!
Sherry Casey
Suzanne’s laughter filled a room and was contagious. As one of her dance partners from Studio Dance I will fondly remember her love of dance and the excitement she brought to our dance community. We were heartbroken to hear of Suzanne’s passing. Sending deepest condolences to all of her family and friends.
Lucie Page
Mes très sincères condoléances à toute la famille de Suzanne. My deep condolences to Suzanne’s husband & family. I have known Suzanne when I was dancing & she was a teacher at Studio Danse. She enjoyed dancing & was a vibrant, loving, wonderful woman.
Daniel Bougie
My deepest sympathy to Suzanne's family and friends. She was a wonderful friend, dance teacher and person. She will be missed by all.
On behalf of my wife Bev and I, we offer our condolences and deepest sympathy to Suzanne’s family and especially to Bob Simmons, Commr. rtd. I worked with Suzanne many times as National Secretary, RCMPVA, attended socials and BBQs, and her assistance, advice and guidance were very much appreciated. We have lost a true volunteer way too soon. Rest easy Suzanne, will miss your smile! Alex and Bev