Susan Lynn Challender
December 25, 2011
Susan Lynn Challender, 46, who tolerated being called Susie only by her family, died unexpectedly Sunday, December 25, 2011, at Mercy Medical Center, of a hemorrhagic stroke.
From the warrior bands tattooed on her upper arms to her search for a spiritual base outside traditional religion, Susan didn’t believe life was meant to be spent following others down well-traveled paths. She boldly leapt wherever her heart and intellectual curiosity led her, whether it was shooting darts, raising bees, or playing Skyrim.
Susan was a writer and poet who loved exploring the wonders of nature, whether she was gardening, watching finches at the feeder or shooting photos of the wildlife she chanced across while hiking. She had a degree in history from Drake University and a second degree in accounting computer systems from DMACC that was nearly complete. But out of everything she had achieved in her life, she considered her greatest accomplishments to be her daughters, Sarah and Rachel.
In addition to Sarah and Rachel, Susan is survived by her mother, Margaret Challender; sisters, Rose (Jeff) Richman and Mary Challender; brothers, Jim (Deb) and Tom (Robin) Challender; nieces and nephews, Jeff, John, Jacob, and Natasha Richman and Christian, Amber, Austin, Braidan, and Brooklyn Challender; aunt, Donna Sitzman; cousins, Bill, Bob, and David Watson, and Patty Cowden; and many beloved friends.
She was preceded in death by her father, Winfield Thomas “Tom” Challender; who we hope, at this moment, is sitting at her side in heaven, listening to her explain Skyrim.
A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. Wednesday, December 28, 2011, at Hamilton’s Funeral Home, 605 Lyon Street.
Memorial contributions may be made to Peoples Trust & Savings Bank, 12701 University Avenue, Clive, IA 50325, for an education fund for Sarah and Rachel.
Online condolences may be made at:
www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com
Perry Beeman
12/27/2011
So sorry to hear of your loss. Susan obviously lived life to the fullest and marched to her own beat. What a great way to live.
Diana Fryer
12/27/2011
I am sorry that I did not know Susan personally. It sounds like she was a very special person. Although I did not know her, I do know the pain of losing a loved one in death. I would like to share something that has brought me much comfort. It is the hope that the Bible holds out. The scriptures say that the dead will be brought back to life in a Paradise earth in perfect health and happiness. (John 5:28,29-Revelation 21:3,4,-Psalm 37:10,11,29) Again please accept my deepest sympathy.
Sarah Hobart
12/27/2011
Although we weren't close "buddies", I spent a lot of time with Susan getting ready for retreats and other events... I loved her for her unflinching honesty and tireless work ethic. I would choose her for my team any day. I am so grateful that our paths crossed the few times they did, and am so grateful to Susan for bringing two such unique and remarkable young women into our world.
Robin-Smith-Sinclair
12/27/2011
Rose, so sorry to hear about Susan,I still remember her as little girl,following us around.How time passes us all by.Will be in my prayers,God Bless.
Annette Mathieu Punelli
12/27/2011
She was an original, we went through a lot together and I always thought we would end up cackling 'round the table as old ladies. I can't believe she is gone. Rest in peace Susie Challender.
Jim Couture
12/27/2011
I'm very sorry for your loss. I worked with Jim at the Post Office many years ago and met Susan then. It's never easy to lose a loved one. I'll say a prayer for you.
Barb Boose
12/27/2011
To Mary and the entire Challender family: God must have wanted an extra-special Christmas gift for Himself this year. Deepest sympathies for your loss! May all your fond memories and Susan's obvious spirit lift your hearts and give you peace.
Joanne Boeckman
12/27/2011
Mary, I was so shocked and sad when I read Susie's obit. My sincerest condolences to you, your mother and your nieces.
Melanie (Gill) Hansman
12/27/2011
I was a classmate of Susan's @ Dowling High School. I am so sorry to hear of Susan's sudden death. Her family, and especially her daughters are in my thoughts and prayers. May all of you find peace and comfort in our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Julie Kaster Estlick
12/26/2011
I never had the chance to meet Susan, but I can see how she influenced her sister Mary, one of the coolest people I know. I cried reading Susan's obit, no doubt written at least in part by my friend.
My husband Mike and I recognize this is a profound loss and are sending healing vibrations from Colorado.
Love,
Julie Kaster Estlick