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Susan Butcher Obituary
Butcher dominated the 1,100-mile sled dog race from Anchorage to Nome in the late 1980s, bringing increased national attention to the grueling competition. She won the 1986 race to become the second female champion, added victories in 1987, '88 and '90 and finished in the top four through 1993.
''What she did is brought this race to an audience that had never been aware of it before simply because of her personality,'' Iditarod spokesman Chas St. George said.
She also made headlines in 1979 when she helped drive the first sled-dog team to the 20,320-foot summit of Mount McKinley, the highest peak in North America.
Clare Hagerty, spokeswoman for the University of Washington Medical Center, said Butcher's family would not comment to the media Saturday night.
According to Butcher's Web site, a bone marrow transplant performed May 16 cleared her system of cancer. But she also developed graft-versus-host-disease, in which transplanted cells start attacking her digestive system. She was moved to intensive care Friday because of a fever and a change in the potassium level in her blood.
''I am sitting with her now and she is sleeping comfortably,'' husband David Monson wrote on his blog Friday on www.susanbutcher.com. ''We expect that if she continues to be stable she can move back into her old room soon. I have learned over the last eight months though to never make predictions. Just focus on what is in front of you right now. It is the most important.''
Butcher ran her last Iditarod in 1994 when she and Monson decided to have children. They have two daughters, Tekla and Chisana.
Three years ago, when she was considering a comeback, doctors found Butcher had polycythemia vera, a rare disease that causes the bone marrow to produce excess blood.
Butcher planned to compete in a 300-mile race last winter, but was unable to compete after she was diagnosed with leukemia in early December.
''Now my goal is to try and stay alive and fight leukemia,'' she told The Associated Press. ''No questions asked, that's what I am going to do.''
During her chemo treatments, Butcher daydreamed about land in the White Mountains she and her husband bought last fall. They planned to build a bigger cabin on the land that comes with 300 miles of groomed trails perfect for mushing dogs right out the back door.
''I got the cutest, lovingest group of well-trained females. They are easy to handle and I just enjoy them,'' she said. ''They will be waiting for me.''
Copyright 2006 The Associated Press.
147 Entries
Kathleen Loggins
June 24, 2023
What a remarkable human being! Love to her family! I just finished reading Susan Butcher and the Iditarod Trail (for thr 3rd time).
Gary Norris
August 31, 2018
What a life well lived! She has left a legacy with her life of excellence and achievements that will surely live on.
Mary Post
June 26, 2018
All your team members that have past are wait for you to run with pure joy
Pat Baird
March 6, 2018
Somehow I missed this announcement after moving to Canada in late 2006, and tonight, searching the web for Susan, to share her story with my daughter who is interested in mushing, brought up this website.
I am stunned and so very sorry for her and her family. She left this earth way before her time, and it is a great loss for her family, her friends, and the world.
My contact with Susan was from when I lived in Alaska during when she was challenging everyone who had an eye on the Iditarod. I was the person whom the people in the remote villages called on the 2-way radio. I slept in a closet-sized hotel room downtown that the Iditarod committee provided, waiting for the radio to crackle and give me info - which I then called into the radio stations, and I remember getting her info from one of the villagers.
We were all proud of Susan - she was such a magnificent role model, and not stuck up or full of herself. She was very approachable and always took time to talk with you.
I am so very, very sorry - the world lost a beautiful soul. We are all enriched by having known Susan or just having had a brief encounter with such a very special woman. She radiated joy.
How you can show support
Linda Burr
November 6, 2017
Thinking if you remembering our youth ,mushing and wild places. Your spirit lives on in us all. One brave determined woman making such a difference in the world!
Scott Peck
August 28, 2017
Dear lady, you were truly a visible example of invisible grace. God speed beautiful one.
You are Beautiful
January 20, 2017
You are my hero, and you have brought such a good reflection on women and girls alike. We are all grieving the loss of such an iconic women you were. thank you for all you have done for us, and now you get to be with your father, mother, and Granite.
that is how i see your death. it is an opportunity for you to live again.
Susan Greer
October 18, 2016
Dear Susan,
I was always a great fan of yours from Louisiana, the "bayou state." My brother & his wife lived outside Fairbanks for 20 plus yrs. You always were "my hero!"
My daughter & I actually got to meet you in Fairbanks in Sepember, 1997, at the Sears in Fairbanks, and I have an autographed photo of you.
Your light will shine bright - and never go out!
I feel in my heart that one day you & I will meet again!
You brought so much sunshine & happy thoughts to so many people, and a lesson of hard work, determination and perseverance!!!
Luv to U! .
Amina yezhnikovsky
October 14, 2015
doing project on susan butcher i thank her for treating huskies well and taking care of her sorry for her loss
Harry Simpson
August 5, 2015
Thank you for sharing a part of your life with us.
Albert Johary
July 27, 2014
You have left a lasting legacy on earth and will continue to be an inspiration to people to "Never Give Up"
God bless you.
March 10, 2014
You are & always will be my hero
Lè
March 3, 2014
Unbelievable remarkable amazing strong woman. I lived in delta junction @ time of her 1st few races. Will never forget her strength @
& condiment . God be w u & yours. Luv up
David Knudson
February 19, 2014
May GOD be with you.
There are sunrises and sunsets and sunrises.
Susan was just like the sun.
You will be will her again and always
February 12, 2014
I pray that he may grant you through the abundance of his glory to be made mighty in the man you are inside, with power through his spirit… (Ephesians 3:16) In this time of loss of someone special in your lives be comforted to know God cares and will help you to endure.
Danielle
October 10, 2013
Still not forgotten, and never can you be.
Kennedy Hill
September 4, 2013
Elo mate I think Susan butcher was a good musher
connie faye richardson
July 2, 2013
To Susan's family,
I am reading though her Guest Book that I did sign back after her passing ... my mother Connie Twigg also left a message as well ... I no longer live in Alaska but my family live in Talkeetna and Trapper Creek so I visit often and when I am there I think about her family and wonder how they are doing ..I have wished I could visit all of you ... I spent many months in Talkeetna in 2011 when my father battled with bladder cancer..I stayed until he passed .. I wonder if it is possible to visit u one day ? I always admired Susan and kept track of her though the years ...I pray her family are healthy and have found peace, even though the pain is never really gone, we miss them more as time passes ... May you all enjoy good health and happiness
April 6, 2013
You are an inspiring women! You never gave up and loved your family and dogs. I wished I had been able to meet you! Rest in Peace.
April 1, 2013
God bless! Lets keep the memories alive. She was a true spirited fighter, but also a loving mother to all her children including her dogs.
Danielle Roberts
April 1, 2013
I wish I could have had the pleasure of meeting this wonderful woman. Susan Butcher is an amazing person. The way she loved her family and dogs is the way everyone should. She is a true example of how we should treat others. I came to learn about her for a research assignment and could not wait to speak to her over the phone or e-mail. When I found out she had already passed away a while ago I was shocked and wanted to cry. She is truly a woman I respect and would love to meet. I want to thank her for all of her work. God bless her even as she is gone and her family. Please let us all take her story and share to others to keep her story alive. She was a true fighter! She never gave up and for that I will do my best to honor her.
hannah brown
July 5, 2012
before susan died i've got to known her a little bit by reading one of her books she became a insperation to me cause i love watching the iditroed and seeing her children grow up is just amazing what age they are at now and im hoping they will follow in their mom's foot steps
MARYANN STONE
June 30, 2012
I NEVER GOT TO MEET SUSAN BUT HAD THE PLEASURE OF SEEING HER HOME THIS SUMMER AND MEETING HER HUSBAND DAVID AND SEEING HER DOGS.I USED TO LIVE IN ALASKA AND NOW LIVE IN TEXAS.I FOLLOWED SUSAN IN HER RACES.RIP SUSAN
March 9, 2012
At first I never knew who u were until I got u as my FAMOUS AMERICAN for the wax muesuem but now i know u won the idatord 4 times u had a brother that died of leukima ur dogs got hit by a pregnat moose I learned from u to never give up keep trying even if ur in a tough situation and I apperiate what u have done!!!!!
November 23, 2011
I work in a Transfer Station\Dump in McPherson,Ks. Today we had someone throw away a plastic feed bag that had written "Return to Susan Butcher Manley, Ak. 99756" in magic marker. On the opposite side was written Elim Butcher. There was also a handwritten note on a sticker that said,"This bag belonged to Susan Butcher of Alaska who raised dogs for the famous sled dog races." I found this quite interesting and wondered how it ended up in the middle of Kansas.
Zoe Wildridge
June 18, 2011
Many of my earliest memories are from your house. I remember playing with the puppies while you spoke to the riverboat tourists, catching little fish on the lake, watching Muzzy in the cabin with Tekla, and so on. I also have strong memories of when Granite was old and came to stay with my family. I had such a good time giving him bones, one after another. You were an amazing woman and are truly missed by many. Rest in peace, Susan.
robin moody
March 25, 2011
I am way behind the times , I did not know she passed away until I brought her up at dinner tonite and my husband told me. Better late then sorry, I am so sorry she way always a icon! I was not a avid follower but I knew she was always the one!!!!!!
miguel angel farias calabres
March 10, 2011
susan .your memory ang spirit willbe allways on my heart ...everybody loved you
miguel angel farias calabres
March 10, 2011
susan .your memory ang spirit willbe allways on my heart ...everybody loved you
Pamela Capps
August 16, 2010
I had the plesure of working on an industrial film with Susan many years ago. What a delightful lady. I was touched by her kindness and friendly spirit.
ToniMarie Smith
July 29, 2010
Although transcended to another dimension, Susan lives on in her family's heart and the hearts of all Alaskans and many folks worldwide. May it comfort you still we loved and treasured Susan, her racing and in her personal life she was a true positive role model and beloved sportswoman. She was a blessing in your lives and YOU AND YOUR DAUGHTERS WERE HER GREATEAST BLESSING.Not forgotten, Toni Marie Smith, Anchorage; Pharr TX
July 16, 2010
Gone but not forgotten your wonderful memories will live on within our hearts. May the God of all comfort continue to be with the family.
He is healing the broken hearted ones, and is binding up their painful spots.
Constance Twigg
November 26, 2008
I will always remember you, always watched you race and have pictures on my wall. I watch for anything about your daughters in the paper, such pretty girls and Hi to your husband, agreat man. Connie twigg Talkeetna, Alaska.
ConnieFaye Richardson
November 25, 2008
Susan will always be remembered by all of our family .
Each year we would keep track where she was in the Race and cheered her on !
We think about her family often..
I no longer live in Alaska but do visit often ..I have family there ..
I was happy to see this Guest book here ..She contines to live on though her beautiful family ...
Andrew Kophengnavong
June 6, 2008
Hi, i am Jasmine Kophengnavong's little brother
palmetto
May 7, 2008
I hope Susan's name will be remebered forever.
caroline Boroch
May 6, 2008
I am doing a real important project on some famous person and I chose Susan Butcher because I think she is a real inspiration to everyone.even to those who havn't heard of her because she worked hard on everything.Its just like her quote "I never knew the word 'quit'.Either I never did it or I abolished it."
Lucia (loo-shea)
May 6, 2008
I want to follow Susan's footsteps.Plus I think Susan's last race in life was the tuffest of all.I hope once in life i will be like Susan.
Moxie Day
May 6, 2008
I hope Susan will RIP.She was a wonderful women.
hannah Brown
March 28, 2008
you were a great person Susan
kit laughlin
December 28, 2007
i once heard you don't measure a life by how many breaths we take but by the moments that take our breath away. you inspired in me the desire to go after those breath taking moments. thank you susan
Debbie Woody
September 28, 2007
I just woke up thinking about Susan and sad to hear that she passed last year. Hope her family is doing ok.
Carol Kasser
June 10, 2007
I am a great admirer of Susan Butcher, so much so that I have written a children's story about the winning team, Susan and Granite.
My sympathy and prayers go to David, Tekla and Chisana.
Eloise
May 13, 2007
Susan Butcher was an insparational woman and i really respect her for that. being a cancer survivor my self i understand what its like. we wil miss her.
Erin G.
April 19, 2007
I am doing a project on Susan and I look to her as a great insperation
Carol Grissinger
April 14, 2007
I know that she was a good women because i was doing a project on her for school. Alot of the websites i went to said she was a good women
Hillary Tschappat-Larson
March 30, 2007
Susan Butcher was a good woman. I know that because my mom worked with her. I am 8 years old and know more about her than I did because my sister Maddie is doing a school report on her.
Madeline Tschappat
March 27, 2007
I my name is Madeline. My ,om worked with Susan I don't know how many years. Susan was a bright person and dedicated her life to her dogs. I hope she is watching down on all of. Susan RIP.
Martha Pelletier
March 14, 2007
Susan was an icon to all women and she will live on in the minds and hearts of all people. The greatest thing of all is that she still lives in her children. God Bless!
krista VanDerzee
March 2, 2007
I learnd about her because she was my fith cousin.
lynne
January 21, 2007
I've just recently learned of this fascinating woman. I came to know the name, as we share a Great-great-great-grandfather. Perhaps his adventurous spirit for coming to this country flowed through her blood.
She "lived" better than most.
Dave Kotzebue
December 23, 2006
Hello Dave,
I'd like to do a screenplay about Susan and her accomplishments.
A fellow skijorer and screenwriter.
Kayla -
November 14, 2006
Hello, i am very sorry about Susan. i chose her to do my report on and i saw this page and wanted to say something. i have susan in my prayers.
Paul Condylis
September 29, 2006
I had hired Susan for an event presented by one of Susan's corporate sponsors, Allied Fibers. It was a large meeting in Atlanta where she appeared on stage with one of her champion dogs. She and her dog were a hit. The hotel made a mistake in room bookings, so she and her dog stayed with my wife, daughter and me in our hotel suite. It was a privilege to be with her and her remarkable dog. She had the simplicity, grace, and goodness that you hope a champion will have. Later my wife attended her wedding in Alaska, designed her wedding gown, and took photos of the ceremony and of Susan in her gown for a national publication. All in all we are proud to have known such an exceptional human being. We are very saddened by her passing, and want her husband, children and other family members and friends to know our prayerful thoughts and sincere love are directed toward them. We will never forget you, Susan.
Nancy Kaye
September 29, 2006
I
knew Susan years ago, and shared many wonderful experiences with her,
producting promotional events with Allied Fibers for her and her dogs
in many states. I also co-designed her wedding dress with her, and
enjoyed the warm and lovely wedding to David in Alaska. We photographed
the beautiful Bride in the tundra for many sport magazine covers.
My thoughts and prayers are with the family at this time. Namaste
Eleanor Murphy
August 30, 2006
I mourn your loss. Susan was one of a kind, and you are a wonderful and strong family. Thank you for sharing your lives with us.
Woodfin Family
August 29, 2006
Gone but never forgotten. Susan's remarkable leadership, boundless energy, and innumerable accomplishments live on in our hearts. We extend our deepest sympathy to the Monson and Butcher families.
Philamena Prieto
August 21, 2006
I used to live in Fairbanks and often would run into her whether it was at a little restaurant where she would just sit and gather her thoughts by reading a book,or in a store.She was a very nice lady and well looked up too for all she accomplished.I brought my mother up to Fairbanks for a vacation one summer and we took the riverboat discovery and got the chance to hear her talk about her dogs and the love of the sport she did.Later we met with her husband and he was just as sweet when talking about her or the dogs.I am glad I had the chance to meet them and my condolences go out to the family and friends of Susan as well as those beautiful little girls.They will be powerful woman and I look forward to see how they grow up.Rest in Peace Susan!!
Doug Westlake
August 16, 2006
I went to the Warehouse School and Sight Point Camp with Susan, and knew her when she had her first husky, Manganak. We used to take our dogs to the big cemetary in Belmont at night and toboggan down the hills with both dogs on the sled with us. I was a young risk taker, even among other guys, but Susan made me feel like a fraidy cat! She had so much energy for life. She able to convince classmates to go down to Boston Harbor in the dead of winter, to go swimming! I haven't seen her since high school, but have always remembered her as if it was only yesterday. She made that kind of impression on everyone she crossed paths with.
Dorothy Zoller
August 15, 2006
I met Susan Butcher and Dave when I lived in Manley Hot Springs, AK.
She was not only kind and careing to her dogs, but also to the local children. I have a photo of her carrying a birthday cake out of the cabin and many young children enjoying a party that Susan had put together. She was such a positive, upbeat person. My heart aches with the information of her passing. My deepest sympathy to David and the two girls at your great loss. Before I left your home just out of Manley I remember Susan saying she wanted me to take a picture of her with Granite. I followed her to where Granite was, and she leaned over so she was face to face with her dog, and she kissed Granite on the nose.
Doris
August 13, 2006
May the Lord hold you in His arms,Dave, as you and your daughters remember the wonderful wife and Mother that has gone on to rest from the battle that she has so valiantly been fighting.
Chris Riesenbeck
August 11, 2006
Only time can heal the great loss that family and friends are feeling. I know the family will take some comfort in the words so many have written on this site as well as the hospital site. It took great courage for Susan and David to keep everyone informed along the way through all the treatments, good days and bad. God bless you, and know that Susan was loved by many and will be missed. Gone but NEVER forgotten.
Cindy Robinson
August 9, 2006
I teach at a school for the visually impaired. I talked about Susan in my classes to give my students courage and motivation.
KiKi BelMonte-Schaller
August 9, 2006
I never met Susan personally, but enjoyed watching her compete. It was a joy to cheer her on. She was an inspiration to many.
pamela kirby
August 9, 2006
Susan, A great woman you were!
You will be remembered & loved 4-ever. Your work here is done-Your work in Heaven has just began.
My condolences to your family.
robin harnois
August 9, 2006
Did not know you but heard of your great race, God Bless and Rest in Peace
Shirely
August 9, 2006
What wonderful memories she has left us. I lived in Duluth when she raced and was saddened that her life ended at such a young age. God's blessings to all of the family as you face the days ahead without her.
Annie Green
August 9, 2006
I met Susan while I was on a cruise with my dear friend Georganna Sorba from Goldboro, North Carolina on our way to Alaska from San Francisco, California last summer for my birthday July 20, 2005. She was a remarkable woman. Such life and vitality... She is someone even the dogs will miss... May the members of the family know how far she reached others on her pathway of life... I took pictures on the cruise and shared them with my class... I teach at Juvenile Hall in San Leandro, Ca ... May God be with you in your time of her homegoing celebration... of Life!
Michele Dauby
August 9, 2006
Susan accomplished things I only dream of yet today. What a great woman with strength and agility and such a success! I saw Susan at the 2001 Iditarod as I was there with Cabela's Outdoor Adventures with Deb Cavanaugh and group and I was so excited to be there on the same street in Anchorage Susan was on. She was at the end of the racers and it was so cool to see her with her team.
Sympathy from Indiana to her family and many friends and fans.
Michele
Santa Claus, Indiana
Jim Bennett
August 9, 2006
Reflecting on Susan's focus & courage, and I get those warm fuzzy feelings that swizzle from head to toe. Her soulfullness and dogged determination, to me, symbolizes joy, happiness and accomplishment. She lived her life's passion and is truly a modern day hero. What an unbelieveable role model for all of us. I was fortunate to see her start/run her first race.
Mark Jacobs
August 9, 2006
Dave, You have my heart felt sympathies. We often talk of the old days at Cord. Hope all everything can go as well as possible. Saying a prayer for you.
Sarah DiGloria
August 9, 2006
My deepest sympathies.
Teena
August 9, 2006
My late husband and I found Susan
and her husband were the pride of
Manley Hot Springs on our visit there
in 1991. She is an inspriation for
folks to look up to. May she rest
in peace. May the Lords grace bless
her family at this time.
Tory
August 9, 2006
Susan was one of the few people in the world that showed me "What some people say is impossible, IS possible!" My sympathies and prayers go out to her husband and children.
Judy Thomas
August 8, 2006
Families are forever.
Stephanie
August 8, 2006
As a lifelong Alaskan, now Arizona transplant, I grew up watching and hearing of Susan. To David, and the girls may you find peace in the memories of your wife and mother. With the recent loss of my son, there are absolutely no words that will ease your pain. May you find solace in your faith and feel her gentle hand guide you through until you meet again.
Toni
August 8, 2006
We just came back from Alaska where we saw Susan's dog kennel in Fairbanks and heard that her illness was getting worse. My heart goes out to all her family. The true pioneer spirit in Susan will hopefully live on in other young women. God bless you, Susan.
LYNN BROWN
August 8, 2006
The loss of someone so close is difficult to bear. We share your grief.
carol revilock
August 8, 2006
SUSAN BUTCHER,
YOU HAVE MADE A MARK IN HISTORY THAT WILL STAND FOREVER. WE ARE VERY PROUD OF YOU.
Darcey St.John
August 8, 2006
Mush on, Susan, Mush on!
toni
August 8, 2006
An athlete, a dog lover, a woman, a wife, a mother, a nature lover... all the things that made her such a competitor and one of my heros. Your daughters are so lucky to have you while they did. Grow strong girls... my sympathies
DENISE LY
August 8, 2006
DEAR SUSAN,
I AM ONLY A NICE LADY WHO WANTS TO
PAY MY RESPECTS TO YOU,YOUR FAMILY.
MY DEEPEST SYMPATHY GOES TO YOUR FAMILY.I HOPE THEY KEEP YOU IN
THEIR MEMORIES ALWAYS.YOU WERE A
BRAVE,CARING AND WONDERFUL LADY.
MAY JESUS WATCH YOU IN HEAVEN ALWAYS.THE ANGELS ARE SINGING TOO.
Talissa Freeman-Ruffin
August 8, 2006
Words will never begin to express the sadness many of us feel to have lost this "Angel" named Susan Butcher. My prayer is that God continues to keep her husband and daughters "Wrapped Up, Tied Up and Tangled Up" in his loving arms of protection. Susan will be truly missed.
Gail Wiatr
August 8, 2006
We watched on television with awe as year after year Susan shared a dream with her dogs. We were lucky to have 9 beautiful huskies and tried to sled them for pleasure, but decided it was easier to just spoil them. I envied Susan for her ability and determination, even her final race. Hats off to you, Susan, with deep admiration.
Colleen
August 8, 2006
A pioneer in a world dominated by males. Watching her on the trail, we knew she did it because she loved it, not because she wanted to be a pioneer. My sympathies to her family.
Lynda Guthrie
August 8, 2006
Susan allways a fan. When I lived in Alaska I herd of your wining and have followed you since. We will miss a great woman who inspired other.
Pamela
August 8, 2006
May god bless and keep you and your family during this difficult time.She is still there, just not physically, look at all her accomplishments she made throughout her life time here. Look after her dogs, you will find peace with them and find her long continuous love still sharing with you all.
Wayne and Patricia Coleman
August 8, 2006
Our prayers are with the family at this time
Tom McCracken
August 8, 2006
We visited about this time last year and watched you work with your dogs--- very impressive!!!! You left your mark as so few of us will.
Kathy Kirch
August 8, 2006
On a vacation trip to Alaska saw Susan's kennel in Fairbanks. Always shared her stories with my students when following the Iditarod. Sorry for our loss but know she has inspired so many.
Al Templeton
August 8, 2006
There have been countless moments during Marathon training and races when when your Iditarods inspired me to push on. Thanks for the legacy.
August 8, 2006
Always a fan.
Bonnie
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