Susan K. Suchla

Susan K. Suchla

(10/22/1957 — 7/27/2025)

Instead of the traditional obituary that is the most common, this is a representation of a life lived with courage, determination, and admiration.

Military/Air Force retired of 20+ years, Susan’s realm was primarily served as a registered nurse and medic. She took great pride in serving our country, doing what she believed in, being stationed in many countries including Korea, Spain and Mexico, just to name a few. 

Her accomplishments, dedication and gift of love are only a few can achieve.

She gave “her back” in supporting her family as her being the oldest of seven children: Sharon, Marilyn, Ronald, Rosemary, Janet, and Gary. Born to Raymond and Mary Suchla, 10-22-1957.

Read this poem and reflect on your “Dash”.

The Dash

(by Linda Ellis)

I read of a man who stood to speak at the funeral of a friend.

He referred to the dates on the tombstone, from the beginning … to the end.

He noted that first came the date of birth, and spoke the following date with tears, but he said what mattered most of all was the dash between those years.

For that dash represents all the time that they spent alive on earth.

And now only those who loved them know what that little line is worth.

For it matters not, how much we own, the cars … the house … the cash.

What matters is how we live and love and how we spend our dash.

So, think about this long and hard — Are there things you’d like to change?

For you never know how much time is left that can still be rearranged.

If we could just slow down enough to consider what’s true and real …

… and always try to understand the way other people feel.

And be less quick to anger and show appreciation more, and love the people in our lives like we’ve never loved before.

If we treat each other with respect and more often wear a smile, remembering that this special dash might only last a little while.

So, when your eulogy is being read, with your life’s actions to rehash…

… would you be proud of the things they say about how you lived your dash?

Such as “The Dash”, Susan’s wishes were simple. She preferred to have no formal services, but did want to buried at Ss. Peter and Paul Catholic Cemetery, Independence, in the military section with a private service and honors. This will be held at a later date. 

Susan’s “dash” is now complete.