It is with heavy hearts and so much love that we say goodbye to our mom, a woman whose strength, style, laughter, and love for her family filled every room she entered.
Mom lived her life with a smile on her face and usually a little sparkle in her outfit. She believed in dressing well, pressing your clothes, wearing designer sunglasses, and, most importantly, that the more bling, the better. And she was never truly ready to leave the house until her makeup was done to perfection and she had on her signature red lipstick. Whether she was headed somewhere special or simply going about her day, Mom believed in looking her best. Fashion wasn’t simply something she enjoyed—it was part of who she was. She could shop until everyone else dropped and probably could have served as an official spokesperson for Dillard’s and Von Maur.
She worked for Wichita Federal Credit Union and Koch Industries, but some of the roles she treasured most were those of homemaker, wife, mother, and grandmother. She was an incredibly strong woman who continued moving forward after being widowed twice. Life asked a great deal of her, and she met those challenges with remarkable strength and resilience.
Above all, Mom loved her family, and her grandchildren held an especially precious place in her heart. She absolutely adored her grandkids and took great joy in spoiling them every chance she got. Whether it was shopping for them, attending their activities, treating them to something special, or simply spending time together, making her grandchildren happy made her happy. There was always room for one more gift, one more treat, or a little extra something from Grandma. She loved watching them grow, celebrating their accomplishments, and making sure they knew just how deeply they were loved.
Mom loved music and theater, traveling, and especially Colorado. She also had a special love for hotels— as long as they had a swimming pool! But few places compared to the lake. The lake meant family, water, cooking, laughter, and fun. And, of course, every cabin had to be decorated to a T. She had a way of making wherever we were feel like home.
Some of our favorite memories will forever be tied to her kitchen. Her shepherd’s pie, potato casserole, homemade cherry pie, and famous lake burgers weren’t just meals— they were part of our family traditions. She was also a devoted chocoholic, and an ice-cold Coca-Cola was always a favorite.
She loved sports and, even more, loved watching the people she cared about compete. She was there for countless events for Chris, Lisa, and JR, cheering them on every step of the way. Her enthusiasm carried over to K-State football and the Kansas City Chiefs. And no one who knew her will forget her love of cheerleading— or hearing one of her favorite cheers: “Choo, choo, choo!”
Mom also loved her cars and wasn’t exactly known for driving slowly, an inherited trait from her father! Whether she was behind the wheel of her red convertible or her black Cadillac, she knew how to make an entrance—and how to get where she was going quickly. And you could be sure she was behind that wheel looking perfectly put together, designer sunglasses on and red lipstick just right.
She taught us to be strong. She taught us to take pride in how we present ourselves. She taught us that traditions matter, that laughter can carry you through difficult times, and that life is meant to be enjoyed. And through the way she loved and spoiled her grandchildren, she showed us that sometimes the greatest joy in life comes from simply making the people you love happy.
There are countless little things that will forever remind us of her—a Coca-Cola, a piece of chocolate, a sparkling piece of jewelry, designer sunglasses, a perfectly pressed outfit, beautifully done makeup and that unmistakable red lipstick, a hotel swimming pool, a day at the lake, a K-State or Chiefs game, a special gift from Grandma, or someone driving just a little too fast.
More than anything, Mom will be remembered for her laughter and her smile. She loved to have fun. She loved to travel. She loved beautiful things, good food, sports, shopping, sunshine, water, and being surrounded by the people she loved. She had a way of bringing energy, laughter, and a little bit of sparkle wherever she went.
Those memories will make us smile because that is exactly what Mom would want. She lived with strength, laughed often, loved her children and grandchildren fiercely, and always did it with style.
We will miss you more than words can say, Mom. Your laughter, your strength, your traditions, your love, and your sparkle will live on in all of us.
Susan passed away August 14th, at Villa St. Francis Assisted Living in Olathe, KS. She was born June 4, 1947.
She was preceded in death by Dr. James E. Bowers and Mrs. Jeanne Bowers, husband Ken Porter, and husband Don Broadhurst and a brother Dr. Richard Bowers.
Susan is survived by: Chris (Shani) Delaney and Carlie Porter: Lisa (Chris) Hayley and Zac Dunitz, JR:(Becky) Jenna and Jordan Broadhurst: and several nieces and nephews.
A private burial will be held at Greenwood Cemetery.
A Celebration of Susan’s life will be held Saturday, August 22nd, from 1:00 to 3:00 at the Territory Ballroom in Council Grove.
Memorial contributions may be made to Ascend Hospice,4550 W. 109th St., Suite 210, Overland Park, KS 66207.
To leave a special message for the family online, visit www.sawyerchapel. com