SANDRA SUE SURYAN

Sandra Sue Suryan, 75, formerly from Anacortes, Washington went to heaven to be with the Lord Tuesday, May 24, 2011 in Fresno, California. She was surrounded by her family at the time of her death.

Born in Barnsdall, Oklahoma, to parents Jessie and Harry Snyder, Sandra arrived in this world with her twin brother, Robert Snyder. They were the youngest of five siblings. The family moved to Anacortes when she was 9-years-old. Sandra attended Anacortes High School where she was homecoming queen and a majorette. She graduated in 1954.

A blind date set up by June and Ray Separovich proved a perfect match. Sandra married Don Suryan six-months later on November 27, 1954. They had 5-children and lived in Mt. Vernon and Anacortes. The family then moved to Kodiak, Alaska shortly after the 1964 earthquake where Don was a respected commercial fisherman.

Sandra spent her years there as a devoted, caring, loving and supportive homemaker. She was creative, making many costumes for school plays, doing crafts, sculpting and painting. Sandra encouraged her children in sports, the arts, education, but most of all she taught by example to be kind to others.

A graceful and nurturing woman, she had a generosity of spirit and considered it an honor to pray for others. God's creation especially the beach, sunsets and wildlife touched her deeply.

Upon retirement, the couple traveled and lived in Arizona, Oregon and Port Susan, WA. Their grandchildren and great grandchildren brought her much joy.

Sandra was preceded in death by her parents; her brothers, Frank Snyder and Robert Snyder; her sister, June Separovich.

She is survived by her husband, Don Suryan; daughter, Cindy Suryan of Fresno, CA; son, Mark Suryan and his wife Yvonne of Franklin, ID; daughter, Linda Leichtfuss and her husband Mark of Burbank, WA; daughter, Brenda Rowland of Anacortes, WA; daughter, Sherry Erwin of Lebanon, OR; sister, Rita Matson and her husband Morrie of Sedro Woolley, WA; 11 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren; numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

A celebration of life is being planned.