Remembering Sue Ridewood

We are sad to share news of the passing of Sue Ridewood, ABC, MC, a longtime member, volunteer and leader with IABC/Calgary and the IABC Canada West Region (CWR). 

Since her passing in Calgary on July 2, the IABC community has been coming together to honour and remember Sue.

Sue was a long-time, passionate volunteer for IABC, and contributed significantly to the work of the CWR board, especially as a leader and judge for IABC Canada’s Silver Leaf Awards program as well as the international Gold Quill Awards, and accreditation evaluation. In 2024, Sue earned the Master Communicator designation, recognizing her dedication and impact on the communications profession in Canada. 

Sue’s dedication to our community did not wane, even as she began her fight against cancer. Last fall, she actively participated in Silver Leaf award evaluations, generously sharing her wisdom and experience with judges from across the country – as she did every year. Our community of members is better for all that she gave to help enhance our profession and enrich our network.

At her funeral in Calgary last weekend, and at a small gathering in Vancouver,  we gathered and shared memories of Sue. Though we all would have much rather gathered with her there, we are grateful for her continued ability to bring us all together to laugh, cry and bask in the friendships we’ve made through our time volunteering together for IABC.  

The CWR board, IABC/Calgary and IABC Canada are looking into honouring Sue in a few ways later this year and will share more with members soon.