Susanne Lara Tershak

September 21, 1970 — August 26, 2023

Susanne Tershak

Service Details

Susanne Lara Tershak was born in the early hours of September 22, 1970. Her birth was just hours after her paternal grandfather, an honored World War II Veteran, passed away. Susanne passed away on Saturday, August 26, 2023, after her own arduous six-year battle with endometrial cancer. Since infancy Susanne suffered from autoimmune deficiencies and was diagnosed with systemic lupus after graduation from Indiana University Bloomington and while obtaining her Master of Science in Deaf Education at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis.

Susanne was happiest when she had the stamina to be doing things. She was an adventurer and loved to experience life from different views - hot air balloons, small aircraft and backroads drives in the family Subaru. She was particularly fond of visiting Colorado, the California Coast and Hilton Head, South Carolina. She loved music, the visual arts, sending greeting cards with long messages and gifting others. In March, 2022, she was over the moon after the birth of her nephew, Andrew Karl Tershak. Aunt Susy became her favorite name.

Since 2008 Susanne lived in West Des Moines, Iowa. She will be greatly missed by her family: parents Andrew and Carol Tershak, brother Andy, sister-in-law Katy, nephew Andy Karl, and her loyal support cat Saylor.

Susanne’s family has many people to thank for help during her last illness, in particular Uncle Ken Peters and neighbors John and Randy Sheeks. And thanks to the professionals who cared for Susanne, particularly Dr. John Martens, the radiation oncologist who cared for Susanne since the beginning of her illness, and nurse Julie; to Dr. Seema Harichand, oncologist who provided the final care along with her team, Jen, Mary Jane, Rachel and Riley; and to the compassionate staff at EveryStep Kavanagh House in Des Moines who provided hospice care in the final days. And many thanks to all the family members and friends who offered love, support, companionship, greeting cards, prayers and their presence at vulnerable times. We cannot thank all of you enough.

The family will hold a private celebration of Susanne’s life in the coming months. Memorials, if desired, can be made to EveryStep Kavanagh House, 900 56th St, Des Moines, IA 50312, or to a charity of the donor’s choice.

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