Our beloved Susan, born in Vancouver July 2, 1948, died suddenly in a car accident September 20, 2023 in New Westminster.
Susan was mother to Christine McKenzie (Mark Gaudette) and Alison McKenzie (Ed Nikkel), sister to Karen Gordon (Martin Smith) and John Gordon (Mirjana Galovic), grandmother to Caleb McKenzie, Colton McKenzie and Kyle Nikkel, auntie to Alexander Smith (Jordan Reid), Margot Young (Roland Young), Lucy Smith (Jacob Gramit) and Graeme Gordon (Alex Gordon). She was predeceased by her parents Helen and Ernie Gordon, her niece Lindsay Gordon and her son-in -law Joe Van Kalsbeek.
A gifted student and athlete, Susan excelled at everything she did. Her entire teaching career of 30 years was spent in Surrey where she was a much respected and much loved grade 7 teacher, coach and colleague. She was an activist in the labour movement during interesting times in BC, a committed member of the BC Teachers' Federation and her local, the Surrey Teachers' Association.
Susan spent many summers crewing for her father on trips to Haida Gwaii and around Vancouver Island aboard the sailboat Wasco. Her love of being on the water led to her becoming an avid cruiser in later years.
Susan's appreciation of sports continued in her retirement. She spent countless hours with family and friends watching tennis and curling, cheering on her favourites and sharing her knowledge and love.
Susan will be remembered and cherished by her family and many friends for her vibrant personality, fierce loyalty and unquestioning support of those she loved.