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Susan Spencer-Wendel
1966 - 2014
Susan Spencer-Wendel
1966 - 2014
Obituary
Guest Book
BORN
1966
DIED
2014
Susan Spencer-Wendel Obituary
Spencer-Wendel was a well-regarded court reporter for The Palm Beach Post when she first noticed a change in her health in 2009. It would be two years before she was diagnosed, but by then she had made up her mind: She would live her remaining days as best she could, travel the places she dreamed of going and complete a long goodbye to those she loved.
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She went to California to find her birth mother; to New York, where her teenage daughter tried on wedding dresses for a glimpse of a day they'll never share; to Budapest, where she and her husband retraced footsteps of an earlier life; to the Yukon, in a vain attempt to see the Northern Lights with her lifelong best friend; to the Caribbean, to Cyprus, and on and on.
Along the way, she wrote stories about two of her trips for the Post that were so heartbreakingly recorded they caught the eye of HarperCollins, which gave her a $2.3 million deal, and Universal Pictures, which followed with a seven-figure offer of its own.
She sprinted to continue her travels and to put them in writing, tapping out the vast majority of her book, "Until I Say Goodbye," on her iPhone using just her right thumb. After its release last year, it briefly hit the best-seller lists of The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal and Publisher's Weekly.
Susan Spencer was born Dec. 28, 1966, in Fort Lauderdale. She made a name for herself at the Post reporting on everything from the 2000 recount to Rush Limbaugh's legal woes. But it was her final story, she said, that was her finest work.
Her book managed to be at once heartbreaking and humorous, filled with turns of phrase that earned laughs even as the overarching story was a sorrowful goodbye. She reveled in the attention even as her body slowly withered away.
Aside from her husband, Spencer-Wendel is survived by three children, Marina, 16; Aubrey, 12; and Wesley, 10; her father, Tom Spencer; and a sister, Stephanie Parlamento. Wendel said his wife "managed, to the very end, to be very positive."
She said she was grateful she was not a born a guitarist, as she lost use of her hands, or a dancer, as she lost use of her legs. She continued to write to the very end, using her nose to type final messages.
"I am not gone," she wrote in her book. "I have today. I have more to give. I know the end is coming but do not despair."
___
Copyright © 2014 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
130 Entries
Larry Gascoyne
April 29, 2025
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
I just finishing Susan's book. An amazing life she lived. Larry Gascoyne, Alberta, Canada
Rachel Sheffield
August 22, 2019
I cried so much. Felt so sad
September 14, 2017
I just read Susan's book she was an incredible lady. The book was awesome. I cried true the entire book. It was great.
Deborah Pace
August 23, 2017
It is 2017 and Susan lives on to influence those who read her book. What a remarkable woman to face ALS head-on and to live the remainder of her life joyfully. Her words make me think: what will I do differently with the time that remains.
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Cindy Keithley
August 11, 2016
I just finished reading Susan's book and I am in awe of her grace and wisdom. What a gift and legacy she has left behind to her family. Truly an inspirational individual . Heaven certainly gained an angel. She has certainly touched my life forever!
May 15, 2016
On my holliday in Greece I read Suzans book. Inspired me. Thanks Suzan from Tessie from Holland
Mai 2016
Vilela Suse
May 29, 2015
Acabei de ler o livro. Meu pai me emprestou. Corri para o Google, na esperança de notícias sobre estado que se encontrava Susan. Ela já havia partido.Chorei e agradeci, por ter tido oportunidade de ler sua história. Agora... aplaudindo esta guerreira! Aqui na sacada, uma buterfly Yellow, veio e pousou. Imagino ser Susan, retribuindo dizendo, que tudo ficará bem. Meus sentimentos: John,Stheph,Nancy,pai,Marina,Aubrey e Wesley.
Dorothy Beavington
March 1, 2015
I am reading Susan's book. What a beautiful gift of love and joy for her family and for all of us. She has reminded me to live each day with passion, laughter and joy and to let my loved ones know how much I cherish them.
Thank you, Susan. Dorothy Beavington
Debbie Earnest
October 3, 2014
I just finished reading Susan's book which turned out to be a pleasant surprise. Wow, I have been working on my optimism but I am humbled compared to her abilities. She will continue to touch many people. Just this morning my mother who suffers from dementia became even more confused. In the stress of trying to figure out what to do my husband and I misunderstood each other and got into one of 'those stupid arguments.' To Make a long story short after the crisis and I was driving to work I kept thinking about Susan and her choice to look at the best side of each situation. It really reminded me that I can choose how I feel and how I react to every situation. Thank you Susan you are in my head now.
August 31, 2014
Aug. 2014
We were sorry to read of Susan's passing. We were honored to meet Susan and her family in Jupiter, Fl. In 2013 at an ALS walk and also at Okeeheelee Park last winter. My husband has had ALS for 10 years. Your book meant so much to us. Our heartfelt sympathies are with you all! May God comfort you and give you strength to carry on. Don & Carol Petrelius Houghton, Mi.
Kathy C.
August 17, 2014
God led me to your wife's book. I will promote her joyful way of living just as my husband did as he died of a deteriorating brain disease over 14 years progression. My life has been changed for the better. God bless you and your family.
Amy Q
August 7, 2014
So sorry to learn of Susan's passing. I've followed her story since I saw her interviewed on the Today show. Her book was amazing! God Bless her family.
Jana Hammer
July 27, 2014
I just finished reading Susan's book. Then I searched to see how she was doing. I feel bonded after reading her story. I think of the lives touched by her writing over the years. I hope that the family will continue on knowing their mom, sister,best friend is with them in their heart.
Elena C
July 15, 2014
I read Susan's inspiring book. Very sad to read of Susan's passing. My condolences to her family.
Deb
July 10, 2014
I just finished reading the book and what an inspiration it is. I'm sad however to learn that this gracious and spirited woman has passed away. What a beautiful gift for her children and to anyone who reads it. Susan's courage and true joy of living sets an example for the rest of us to follow. To Susan's family, loved ones and friends, I'm sincerely sorry for your loss. Susan's love of life will be something I'll aspire to from this day forward. Thank you Susan.
Victor Fredda
July 9, 2014
John,
So sorry for your loss. What a beautiful person you married.
Vic and Nancy Fredda
Ginny Young-Cooper
July 3, 2014
Susan...you are part of my soul. I just finished your memoir today 7/3/14 and then read that you went on your next journey...I am so grateful that you are now a part of my pilgrimage. Your courageous truth energizes the paths before me. Words alone are unable to thank you enough for imparting the truths contained in your words. Peace and love to you, John, and all your family and friends for sustaining and sharing you so we could taste the goodness of your Essence. Ginny Young-Cooper Hartford Connecticut
June 29, 2014
I googled Susan's name today, June 29, 2014, fearing what I might find. I was praying she was still living her remarkable life. I just finished her book today and wanted to tell her how inspired I was by her story. Despite her ALS, she was full of the joy of living and has left her family wonderful memories she intentionally created. Now, that is a life well spent. I know I am not alone in sending best wishes and prayers to all those who loved her and will miss her.
Sharon Peterson (Fresno, Calif.)
Linda Ksiazek
June 28, 2014
I was very saddened to learn of Susan's passing. I have followed her story and she is a remarkable person. Surely, she is with God. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
mary cross parry
June 28, 2014
For some reason I refused to read Susan's book while she was alive, even knowing it was an inspiring book that would "move me." This embarassed me as Susan was willing to spend time with me (why me, i wondered!) during her last months. Her presence, and John's, will impact me forever. I thought her book would only Move me to tears and I wanted to just see Susan, not as the now famous author, but as HER, the great mom, fabulous PBPost writer & ultra-kind, along with her husband John & sweet Marina were when we first met as Marina & my son, Jack, attended pre-Kindergarten together. Her book and the time she "gave" me makes me smile and live more fully in the moment and is "moving me" to do some things I shared with her that I thought were silly ideas. I wonder when I will reach the point when I "make my moves" as many times as John moved Susan. Probably a long time. Whenever I come to a point, even daily decision making, I find myself thinking WWSD (What Would Susan Do). I smile as the choice becomes strikingly apparent. Thank you, Stephanie, for sharing your sister with me, & thank you, John, for sharing your wife and your time with me. I will forever be grateful. Blessings & prayers for your family & close friends,
Mary Cross Parry
Veronica Anover
June 24, 2014
Susan has died but not her spirit. I will always think of her as an inspiration as will always remember her impactful words that are left in her book: "acceptance" and "joy". It is all about accepting our realities and enjoying the present moment. But also the sentence that she quotes from Dr. Seuss: "Don't cry because it's over, smile because it happened". My deepest and most sincere condolences to her family and friends.
Kelly Ace
June 24, 2014
I just finished Susan's book this afternoon. I am moved beyond words most pages still wet. My condolences to your husband children and extended family and friends. My the grace of God be upon you now at this incredibly sorrowful time. Susan is an inspiration I will never look at a sunset the same again. I thank you for your words of wisdom and joy. God Bless you all xox
June 24, 2014
This morning, I finished her book, then googled to learn she had passed. Her uplifting spirit will fill me the rest of my days.
Kimberly Maxwell
June 23, 2014
Dear John, Marina, Aubrey & Wesley,
It is our prayer that God will comfort and strengthen you in the days ahead.
With love & prayers,
Kimberly, Brooke, Evan & Tiffany Maxwell
June 23, 2014
To the family of Susan Spencer-Wendel
What a blessing Susan was to her family and all who knew her. She was truly an inspiration. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
With love,
Janet Guardabassi
Fort Lauderdale
June 22, 2014
So sad to hear...I just received the book today and could not put it down.
Finished it, and visited her Facebook page, only to learn of her passing. I wish her family well, and know that she was lucky to have been so loved! A wonderful inspiration and so glad I came across it.
david moraes
June 22, 2014
HIP
david moraes
June 22, 2014
HIP
June 21, 2014
So sorry for your loss. I just wanted to let you know that I happened upon Susan's story on People.com and immediately requested a copy of her book from our local library. The wait list was long, therefore, pleasantly surprised when I was notified a week later that the book was available. I read it and it has inspired me to capture the memories for we know not when our time will come. Susan had a dreadful disease that robber her of her ability to move but not of her ability to live her life through her writing. Thank you Susan for inspiring me to read your story, enjoy the joyful moments with my kids and teaching me to look at life in a new way. My prayers are with her lovely family! RIP Susan and walk freely in God's Heavenly Kingdom!
June 21, 2014
I read Susan's book after I lost a friend to ALS. Susan sounded like she was a woman who made an indelible mark on those she was able to touch. What an amazing way to take a devastating illness and inspire others. My condolences to the family on their painful journey as their "new" normal begins. Melaney from Canada
June 21, 2014
Susan and her family were able to touch our spirits and our souls with their LOVE for each other, and their example in living well. And, Susan leaving this life sharing LOVE and dignity with JOY was her special gift to us!
Susan's strength in God's sunsets will always touch me, too!
June 21, 2014
God bless Susan's remarkable spirit and soul! God bless her family!
June 20, 2014
So sad to hear about such a young talented woman. Much to young to die. Hopefully she is at peace, and watching over her family.
Christopher Cobb
June 19, 2014
I work with Susan's sister, Stephanie, at Palm Beach State College. And through Stephanie I heard so many wonderful, uplifting stories about Susan. She truly was an amazing person and a real inspiration for people everywhere. She inspires me still. My heart goes out to Susan's family. Thank you for sharing with us.
Louise and Roger Machin
June 18, 2014
We have lots of lovely memories of Susan and John on our wedding day in Budapest - John as best man, Susan as impromptu photographer! So pleased to know that you did not 'go gently into that good night'. Bravo Susan.
Sherry
June 17, 2014
I lost my twin sister to ALS.
What a brave soul you were, and are Susan.
Maria-José Dias
June 17, 2014
Bye Susan...we'll meet again in the skies with God! thank you for your smile and words of JOY
Kennedy Christopher
June 14, 2014
I was so sad to read of Susan's passing. I read her book last year and was very touched by her story. May she be at peace now.
Tim McAleer
June 12, 2014
A wonderful person who will be remembered in her words and actions for years to come. As an animal rights activist I cried over her story about Gracie and her son. I read it again today and it still has the same affect on me. You just can't look past the beautiful people in your life. I never had the pleasure to meet her but she will always be a great person in my memory. To her family I give my sincere condolences.
Kathyleen S.
June 12, 2014
John, reading your wife's obituary refreshes my own grief for a long deceased friend and love. Yet, from this selfish pain springs an empathy and compassion for your family as you tread a path without Susan's physical presence. God bless all.
Ann Blakely
June 10, 2014
Susan's life has helped me see my on-going health issues in the proper light. I live with joy and always have but Susan re-enforced that. I like to think of her now being with her mother Tee and having been united with her birth father.
June 10, 2014
She wrote you a wonderful story of her life keep her book close so that when you feel like you need to talk to her she is there with you as you read the love she left behind~! Susan I remember you~ You captured my heart I could not take my eyes off of you when you spoke~! God has an angel and I will miss your words of wisdom on life~ may your family get through this time of sorrow keep watch over your family from above~! You are now free of pain Susan~! You will live on in my heart~ Your fan Carolyn Newman, Mount Forest, Ontario, Canada~ P.S I always wondered where you went and now I know God has you~! Watch over me too my favorite writer~!
June 10, 2014
TO THE FAMILY OF SUSAN. I AM SORRY TO HEAR OF THE LOSS OF YOUR LOVED ONE. MAY YOU FIND COMFORT BY DRAWING CLOSE TO GOD DURING THIS DIFFICULT TIME
PS 121:1-8
June 9, 2014
I never met Susan but after reading her very inspiring story, I feel like I knew her. I wish her family and friends a life filled with love and beautiful memories of Susan.
June 9, 2014
Susan was a great reporter that operated on principle and a professional ethical code. Her honest insight will be missed by all of us.
Philip J. Massa
MaryAnn Chaisson
June 9, 2014
My deepest sympathy on the death of Wife, mother, sister, child & friend. I recently read Susan's book, and although we have never met. She has touched my life. You are all in my thoughts & prayers. Rest In peace!
June 8, 2014
Why I cry I do not know. Susan's was a life truly well-lived. She gave so much to so many of us and she will be missed. Godspeed Susan, and peace to your loved ones.
June 8, 2014
Susan, you are in comfort and peace now, for that I am thankful. You have set an example for dealing with adversity that will last through the years. I so admire you and though I've never met you, I miss you and am sad. Please, rest in peace.
Beth Martinez
June 8, 2014
Amazing people never leave . God bless you and your beautiful spirit
Marianne McKiernan
June 8, 2014
Her book meant so much to me. I am sorry for your loss, because as much as I, a stranger, admired her, she meant 1000 times more to her family and friends. May you be comforted by her love and her spirit.
Jane Smith
June 8, 2014
Susan was a generous friend, great writer and loving wife and mother.
ALS caught her in the prime of her life. She learned not to complain, but to accept.
Susan reminds me of this quote by another favorite author, the late Hunter S. Thompson: “Life should not be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside in a cloud of smoke, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming 'Wow! What a Ride!' "
She was able to do this!
June 8, 2014
I'm one of thousands who followed her amazing story after being captured by her book. Every picture I saw was one of a smile. I can only imagine the smile she now has in her eternal life. Thanks for sharing such an amazing story and such a wonderful life. Rest In Peace.....
Diane Smith
June 8, 2014
What a brave courageous
woman. May she rest in peace.
Prayers to her family.
Lilliette Harris
June 8, 2014
Rest Lovely Lady in Sweet Heavenly Peace knowing you are Loved and will never be forgotten.
V B
June 8, 2014
Susan was inspiring yes...but so much more than that was her "focus on life", not just for her, but for all of us to live it to its full potential! Let her inspiration guide us thru our everyday lives and be kinder and forgiving to others as we live our daily lives. Thank you Susan for expressing that to me. Now you are at peace.
Evelyn Feld-Grosso
June 7, 2014
I was so affected by Susan book. Her strength and resolution to create good memories for her family is a lesson for all. Bless her family and friends.
gena
June 7, 2014
susan inspired many and loved by thousands...
Kathryn Hartman
June 7, 2014
Susan's story touched me in a way that I cannot put into words. God bless her beautiful family.
Maria Martins
June 6, 2014
Grande mulher, escritora, amiga e mãe afetuosa. Exemplo de superação e vontade de viver intensamente.
Julie (Swink) Krolak
June 6, 2014
So sorry to hear this news. I went school with Susan at FHHS and remember always so cheerful and happy. I hope she is at peace and may GOD bless her family.
Marti
June 6, 2014
I read Susan's book and was inspired by her desire to live month by month for one year and spend wonderful times with the people in her life who meant the most to her. I have kept her and her family in my heart and have wondered how she was doing. Being a nurse, I know how very, very difficult ALS is, and I am glad that her suffering is over. So sad to hear of her passing, but her memory and love will be with you always, as you already know. She touched my life.
Kimberly R.
June 6, 2014
I knew Susan in college, through Nancy and Jenny. I remember her warm smile and kindness. What grace, such an inspiration and very bright light that will keep shining in our hearts. You touched all of us, Susan. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and stories. We will laugh more and live fully in your honor. John, Marina, Aubrey, Wesley and Stephanie and family please accept my deep condolences. And love to dear Nancy.
Olivia Randolph
June 6, 2014
What a gracious and loving woman. I morn for her and my heart is with her family. I hope her book helps to comfort her family and friends in times of sadness, bring awareness to ALS, and provide support for those receiving this diagnosis and their loved ones.
June 6, 2014
Very inspiring. May our Lord comfort you in your time of loss.
June 6, 2014
With every moment of mourning, May a happy thought or memory steal in to ease t,he pain.
Fran McCrear
June 6, 2014
I did not know Susan personnally but her story was very inspirational. I send my blessing and prayers to the entire family may God Bless and keep you all in good health.
Fran and Cornelius McCrear from URS.
Kerstin
June 6, 2014
What an amazing women. Truly an inspiration to me. I am so sorry for your loss. I pray for peace for you and your children.
Aileen Maguire-O'Dea
June 6, 2014
Our sunset in the very West of Ireland the last couple of nights has been truly astounding. Red, red sun behind grey and white cloud. God Bless Susan. Joy and peace.
June 6, 2014
Just this past year I lost a friend to ALS and he like Susan lived until the end. Thanks for the lessons on living.
Diane Marshall
June 6, 2014
Dear Wendel Family, My thoughts and prayers are with you. Your wife/Mom was a wonderful person. I loved the time we spent together at Forest Hill.
Carol Brennan
June 6, 2014
An absolutely inspirational woman. Peace and comfort to her family and friends.
Cecelia Keyes
June 5, 2014
Susan was a truly great woman. I am glad to have met her through her book. May good memories keep her living always.
Neil Siegel
June 5, 2014
To the family of Susan Spencer Wendel I am very sorry for your loss.My thoughts & Prayers are with you all during this very difficult time.Neil Siegel [email protected] Palm Beach Co. Sheriff's Office
Madeline Kennedy
June 5, 2014
Thank you, Susan, for giving a voice to the rest of us. You were brave and eloquent. I will try to carry on your message for all of us with ALS. I look forward to meeting you on the other side.
Mary Climent
June 5, 2014
I followed Susan through FB page and I am overwhelmed with sadness at her passing. My sincere condolences to her entire family.
Nancy Webber
June 5, 2014
I became aware of Susan and her story soon after a childhood friend passed away from ALS at age 52. Susan's book enthralled me with her wonderful outlook on life despite the horrible diagnosis she lived and ultimately died from. Her memoir will continue to tell her story for years to come. My sincere condolences to her family. Amazing person and life
June 5, 2014
I'm so sorry for your loss and may Almighty God bring comfort to the family.
Maria Alejandra Orellano
June 5, 2014
un ejemplo a seguir, una inyeccion de vida....poder ser feliz sin tenernos lastima....mi sincero cariño a su familia, el libro de Susan me lleno el alma
Caroline Hack
June 5, 2014
I knew her and her family only through her book, and Facebook page. Yet I feel I learned such much from her about life and how to live it. I was so disappointed when on her trip to see the northern lights, the lights never showed up. But she was never disappointed, far from it she had a wonderful time. If I can live my life with just a smidgen of the grace and joy she had I will feel truly blessed.
Susan Madera
June 5, 2014
May her joy continue...
Michael Maloney
June 5, 2014
I was diagnosed with ALS in August 2012. Susan's book made me cry and made me laugh (and laugh far more than cry) ... It gave me hope! God bless you and thank you for sharing her inspiring story.
Veronica Bower
June 5, 2014
Susan was my "rain angel"! I met her with "colors" and I will never forget her or her loving family. I will miss you Susan! My time with you two weeks ago on our walk will always be in my heart. God has you now.
Lynn Whitfield
June 5, 2014
Susan showed us all how to live life with joy even when others don't see anything for us to be joyful about. Even in illness she wore a smile. I remember talking to her about cases I was handling or seeing her in the hallways of the courthouse. She was a gifted reporter, writer and a wonderful person. She will be missed.
My condolences to her family. You are in my prayers. Susan fought the good fight. Now she is spreading her joy in a special way.
Howie Zusel
June 5, 2014
My deepest condolences to you and your family John. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Catlan
June 5, 2014
Susan was very inspirational to us all..will be missed....
A Carr
June 5, 2014
It is so encouraging to read of Susan's positive view, even in the face of a dread disease.
Her life makes us examine what we are doing and what we are contributing to those around us.
May God's peace be with you as you mourn the loss of this beautiful woman.
May you find solace in fond memories and all she did to set an example and be of comfort to others.
Psalm 121
Meridith Tuckwood
June 5, 2014
I've never met a more amazing woman than Susan. I am blessed to have known her. My condolences to John and the kids. She will truly be missed!!
Connie Goldman
June 5, 2014
Your life and your words are a gift. Thank you.
Barbara
June 5, 2014
Such a strong and courageous beautiful woman - God Rest Your Soul.
Lisa Epstein
June 5, 2014
I never met Susan. I read her Post byline for many years and then, later, stories about her life after her diagnosis. She is a great inspiration, an amazing woman. I explained Susan's story and brought my young daughter to her book signing at the CityPlace book store. We've had many discussions on Susan's life perspective and the lessons we strive to put into practice. May G-D comfort her family and friends. She will be greatly missed, even by those of us who did not know her personally.
Harry Simpson
June 5, 2014
Well done Susan. Well done.
Julie Russell
June 5, 2014
To Susan's family. Although I never meet Susan, I admired her immensely because of her tremendous words (in newspaper, her book, facebook posts etc), her community spirit (helping others and making a difference), I join you in sorrow for the loss of an amazing human, mother and wife. I can assure you, my life changed dramtically when I read her book....I seize the joy in every day.
Fly sweet Susan!
Jane Dowling
June 5, 2014
God bless you and hold you, beautiful woman ~ Love and prayers to your family.
June 5, 2014
I read Susan's book twice and was very inspired by her spirit which will live on. Thank you, Susan for showing us all how to live and die gracefully.
Dana Gilgis, Naperville Illinois
June 5, 2014
Heartfelt condolence goes to the Wendel family. I am sorry for the loss of Susan. May you have many memories of special moments together. May God give you the strength to endure. (Romans 5:3- 5)
June 5, 2014
HEB.12,13,THEREFORE,STRENGTHEN THE HANDS THAT HANG DOWN AND THE FEEBLE KNEES,KEEP MAKING STRAIGHT PATHS FOR YOUR FEET,SO THAT WHAT IS LAME MAY NOT BE OUT OF JOINT BUT,RATHER,MAY BE HEALED...MAY THE PEACE OF GOD BE WITH THE FAMILY......GRAHAM
June 4, 2014
what an inspiration...
Bill Douthat
June 4, 2014
Given Susan's incredible talent for overcoming insurmountable barriers to file her stories, it would not surprise me to see one more chapter emanating from the heavens. I am awed by her resolve to confront end of life with grace, dignity and humor.
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