Obituary of Ph.d. HydeSusan Ann Hyde
<h1>Dr. Susan Ann Hyde Ph.D.</h1>
1953 2007
After a long and courageous battle with cancer, Susan passed away on Saturday, March 31, 2007, with her mother at her side.
Uniquely inspiring, we consider ourselves blessed to have shared our life journey with Susan. Enriching the lives of family, friends, students, and members of the community, Susan will be profoundly missed by all.
Susan was predeceased by her husband Michael S. Bird in 2003 and by her father Kenneth Thompson Hyde. Susan is lovingly remembered by her daughter Sarah Bird; mother Maurie S. Hyde; brother Roger (Cynthia) Hyde & niece Lauren of Calgary; along with Michaels son Tom (Catherine) Bird and their children Ryan and Marisa of Waterloo and Michaels daughter Kristen (Dan) McGovern & their daughter Amanda of Florida; and relatives in England.
Born October 26, 1953 in Calgary, Alberta. Susan led an active and interesting life. Following graduation from the University of Calgary in 1975, she moved to Vancouver to continue her studies at UBC. She majored in Psychology from 1978-82. Susan graduated with a degree in Clinical Psychology M.A. and earned her Ph.D. in 1982. In 1983, she accepted a position as Clinical Psychologist at Sydney General Hospital in Cape Breton, N.S., where she practiced her calling for eight years. As a champion of Womens Rights, she represented the National Action Committee on the Status of Women for N.S. from 1984-88, and was the National spokesperson for NAC during the Mark Lepine tragedy in Montreal.
While in Sydney, N.S., Susan met her future husband Michael S. Bird (Professor at U of W) at an antiques auction. Romance flourished and she moved to Ontario in 1990 to be closer to Michael. In 1992, they were married. In 1995, Susan and Michael published the book Hallowed Timbers. This joint project about the wooden churches of Cape Breton remains a testament to the unique partnership they shared.
In 1994, Susan and Michael traveled to China to adopt Sarah Ann, a beautiful and bright baby. Susan would remember these years raising Sarah as her happiest
hosting parties, taking Sarah on cultural excursions and singing and reading to her little girl. Sarah will forever remain the greatest gift of Susans life.
Susan had recently taught at U of W and Conestoga College. She also worked in private practice and at the hospital.
Susan was keenly interested in the arts. She was an avid reader and film buff, collector of art and antiques, and loved photography, music and writing. Susan also traveled extensively in Europe and the U.S., connecting with relatives in both parts of the world and laying foundations for lasting friendships. Susan attended Parkminster United Church, where she was a member in the choir.
Special thanks to Dr. Carolyn Campbell, the nurses on the 8th floor at Grand River Hospital and Dr. Elliott Williamson and the staff at Freeport Hospital.
Friends are invited to share their memories of Susan during visitation at the Erb & Good Family Funeral Home, 171 King St. S., Waterloo on Thursday from 7-9 p.m. and on Friday from 7-9 p.m. The funeral service to celebrate Susans life and faith will be held at Parkminster United Church, 275 Erb St. E., Waterloo on Saturday, April 7, 2007 at 2 p.m. Rev. Elizabeth Eberhart-Moffat will be officiating. Reception will immediately follow in the Church Hall.
Condolences for the family and donations to the Joseph Schneider Haus Museum in support of its Folk Art Collections or the Parkminster United Memorial Fund may be arranged through the funeral home, 519-745-8445 or www.erbgood.com.
In living memory of Susan, a tree will be planted at the U of W campus by the family.
