Susan Dean, Beebe cook, animal lover
Susan P. Dean overcame the most perilous of beginnings half a world away to find love and comfort in America that she gave back many times over in a life that ended far too soon. She died on Christmas day, Dec. 25, 2016, at her home in Lincoln, where she lived with her father and stepmother. She was 43 years old, and left heartbroken the family she so enriched.
She is survived by her mother Joan Farnsworth; father Bob Dean; stepmother, Jane Dean; brothers Jason Dean and John Harnish; sister-in-law Ritsuko Koga; nephew Casey; niece Shion; and aunts, uncles, and cousins who love her.
Susan was employed as a cook at Beebe Healthcare. Susan was a fighter. She had to be. Her first two years or so - her exact birth date is unknown - she spent in An Lac orphanage outside of Saigon, Vietnam. She was one of hundreds of children stranded there by war who cried out for attention from caregivers who were too few to provide the abundance of nurturing that was so desperately needed. She found comfort in Lancaster, Pa., in the loving embrace of Joan and Bob. She quickly learned to like being the center of attention.
In elementary school, Susan enjoyed putting on performances for the family, where she would play the drums along with Sheila E, or dance to Prince. Jason used the living room lamps as spotlights. Things didn't always come easily for Susan, but she threw herself with gusto into what interested her, what she enjoyed. She knew more about American presidents than anyone else in the family. She loved cooking, and watching the Philadelphia Eagles. She adored animals, her own and others, and showered them with affection. Above all, she was caring and thoughtful of her family and friends. Even when she herself was in pain, she sought to comfort others. She will be missed painfully but remembered with joy.
A celebration of Susan's life will be held Saturday, Jan. 14, at 11 a.m., at the Goshen United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall, 114 Federal St., Milton.
In lieu of flowers, please make a contribution to the charity of your choice in Susan's name.
