Obituary of Susan Margaret VanDerzee

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Susan Margaret Haar VanDerzee, an exceptional role model in all she believed in: helping others, speaking kindly, laughing out loud and following dreams. Susan passed away peacefully on Friday, September 13th at the age of 78, surrounded by her family.

Born to Ruth and Harold on March 15, 1946, Sue was the oldest in a large and loving family of 8 siblings. She lived a life full of love, kindness, faith, and unwavering dedication to making the world a better place, challenging inequitable systems and championing social and environmental justice causes. 

She was the loving wife of Robert, with whom she shared 58 beautiful years of marriage, filled with adventure, joy, laughter, and mutual support. Her strength, gentle guidance, and selfless devotion were constant sources of inspiration.

Sue was a proud and nurturing mother to her four children: Keith (& Brooke), Karin (& Peter), Mark (& Sasha) and Kate (& Rob), whom she raised with great compassion, wisdom, and boundless love. She taught them what is important in life: caring for the less fortunate, caring for the earth, being kind and loving.

As a grandmother to 12 adoring grandchildren: Jared, Stephanie, Nicolas, Aster, Paul, Elisabeth, Aaron, Analysa, Seth, Jayliany, Andrew and Lucas, she created countless cherished memories, filling their lives with stories, warmth, and an endless supply of love. Sue was also a devoted aunt to her many nieces and nephews and friend to all. Her legacy of kindness, joy and optimism will live on in each of them. 

Sue was a wonderful writer and editor of numerous different town newspapers, including the Town Times in Durham and Middlefield, which she started with a few good friends. Sue loved working with the high schoolers on the student newspaper, which she mentored for decades. She was a peace marcher in the 1960s and believed in equitable politics for all. Sue was the first female selectperson in Sherman, CT. She cherished being part of her communities through her volunteer efforts with her church, her children's schools, the youth and family services and her environmental groups. Sue touched the lives of many through her generous spirit and her unyielding commitment to community.

The family will hold a memorial service to celebrate Sue's remarkable life and legacy at 11am on Saturday, September 28th at First Church of Christ Congregational,  2183 Main St., Glastonbury. There will be no calling hours.  In honor of Sue's joyful spirit, bright clothing would be more than welcome at the service.

In recognition of Sue's tireless service to others and creating a better world, in lieu of flowers, please make a donation if you wish in her memory to the charity closest to your heart.

Sue leaves behind a legacy of love and her joyous laugh, bright smile, compassionate nature and ability to bring people together will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know her. For online condolences please visit www.mulryanfh.com