Suzanne Mary "Susie" Ward October 12, 1941 - October 3, 2021, Suzanne Mary Ward passed away peacefully at home in Lucas Valley on October 3, 2021, after an extended battle with multiple myeloma and related issues. Born October 12, 1941, in Clarion, Iowa to Florene Banks Meier and Dr. Glen John Meier, DDS. Susie or 'Bammy,' as she was fondly known by her grandchildren, Brian, Megan, and Cienna, who were showered in her love and support. Susie graduated from the University of Iowa with a BS and Nursing Degree in an accelerated four year program which included working in the hospital. She started her career at University of California San Francisco with stories of patients from the famous, including a governor, mayors, and not so famous; to making a presentation at Grand Rounds. Her strong preference for patient care resulted in her start with the just formed VNA at Mt. Zion Hospital in San Francisco. Starting a family brought her to Marin, where she juggled schedules while raising two boys by working nights at then Marin General. Susie served as a Deacon at First Presbyterian in San Rafael. She initiated, participated in and contributed to numerous volunteer and charitable projects. When confronted with a steep enrollment decline in the then Dixie School District, she established, with friends, Childrens House Montessori School. She maintained her career with Marin Home Care while willingly giving her time and energy in volunteer work through the boys education at Dixie Elementary, then St. Marks, Miller Creek and Terra Linda High School, as well as giving support of their swimming, water polo and soccer participation. She continually stressed that just showing up was not good enough that success was achieved from the effort put in before and after competition was the fun part to measure how well you were progressing. Her professional and organizational talent, combined with a positive attitude and humor, earned the respect of all for patients and their families she was unafraid to advocate on their behalf with the goal to optimize their well being - for doctors, medical staff and co-workers she gained their respect through her insight, recommendations, honesty and work ethic. Above all, she valued her family and friends - never failing to remember birthdays, holidays or special events. She reached out by phone or letter to share with them their value and importance to her. Susie was to all who knew her caring, kind, honest, supportive and loyal. She is survived by her husband of 50 years, Don; her sons Jeff and Jason; their wives Jennifer and Amy; and grandchildren Brian, Megan and Cienna. In her passing an angel has left us. We are blessed in knowing and loving her. A Celebration of Life will be held at Fernwood Chapel in Mill Valley. Inurnment will be held in a private ceremony at Sacramento Valley National Cemetery.
Published by Marin Independent Journal from Oct. 23 to Oct. 25, 2021.
Fernwood Funeral Home is assisting with services.