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Suzanne McKay Obituary

Suzanne Wilson McKay 1930 ~ 2003  One of God's most beautiful daughters, Suzanne Wilson McKay slipped from our arms into the arms of her parents, children, and countless loved ones August 26, 2003. Suzanne was born February 28, 1930 in Alta, Wyoming to Thomas Ross Wilson and Alice Cloe Larsen, and six older brothers. Suzanne lost her mother at the age of three, and was later privileged to call Essie Rigby Wilson "mother."  Suzanne attended Teton High, graduating in 1948. She was a star in band, sports, and drama. She subsequently attended Utah State and Idaho State prior to her marriage in 1951. Suzanne had seven children, losing three of them as babies, and was later divorced. She continued her education at BYU receiving a degree in education. She then taught in the business department at Ricks College for seven years. During this time she met Thomas B. McKay. The two were married July 20, 1967. Together they had two boys, and lost one at the age of 16. Her life was full of trials, but never did she breathe a word of complaint. Suzanne has lived, loved and served in many places including Alta, Wyoming; Rexburg, Idaho; Logan, Salt Lake City, and Orem, Utah. As a devoted member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Suzanne served in many capacities and defined the word "Charity." Because of her constancy and selfless life, we never met anyone who didn't love and truly respect her.  Suzanne is survived by the following loving family: husband Thomas B. McKay; Children Diane (Ted) Schultz, Glen (Linda) Bell, Jane (Michael) Flynn, Kathryn Bell, David (Cynthia) McKay; Grandchildren Ryan (Karen), Nick (Chelsea), Tallena, Chris (Tara), Jeff, Christie (Doug), Aimee, Raven, Robert, Charee, Amber, Chandra, Jordan, Morgan, and Rachelle; Stepchildren Tommy McKay, Marilyn McKay; Step-grandchildren Sara (Dan), Tommy (Cindy), Travis (Noelle), Tyson (Loretta), Dorin, Tori, Kajsa, Kiley, Kinsey, Kelsey, Kira, David, and Dawson; Nine great-grandchildren; Siblings Ralf (Jan), Wayne (Nikki), Janice, Grant (Sharol), Merrill, Charlie (Mary Jane), Elsie (Niel), and an infinite number of friends and relatives whom she loved with all of her heart. Welcoming her into heaven was her adored son Morgan; Baby Daughters Jaline, Juline, and Colleen; Parents Thomas Ross Wilson, Alice Cloe Larsen Wilson, and Agnes Elsie Rigby Wilson; Her brothers Mark and Clyde, Her Sister-in-Law LaRae, step-daughter Mary and many friends and loved ones. What a sweet reunion that must have been.  Our sorrow is deep, but just as deep is our joy- the joy she gave- for she touched each one of us, and no one she met will ever be the same! "Because we have been given much, we too must give" This is her legacy! In memory of Suzanne, she would want you to lift the heart of one in need, plant flowers, serve your neighbor, eat chocolate, laugh, and never stop giving. Memorial Services will be held Monday September 1, 2003 in the Lakeridge 12th Ward Building 450 South 100 West, Orem UT, at 11:30 a.m. A Viewing will be held on Sunday August 31, 2003 from 6-8 p.m. at the Sundberg-Olpin Mortuary 495 South State Street, Orem, and again just prior to the Memorial Service 10-11 a.m. on Monday September 1, in the Lakeridge 12th Ward Building. Graveside Services will be held in Alta, Wyoming at the Pratt Ward Cemetery Tuesday September 2, 2003 at 12:00 noon.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Salt Lake Tribune on Aug. 30, 2003.

Memories and Condolences
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5 Entries

Julie Kaufmann

September 4, 2003

What a wonderful friend and leader. She had so much love and was always willing to help the underdog as myself. She will be sorry missed and there is a place in my heart that will remain empty forever. Thanks for touching my life so deeply.

Robert Axson

September 1, 2003

She was one of the most important people in my life here on earth. I am grateful for the knowledge that I have of a loving Heavenly Father who will provide a way for me to see her again. She always lived the gospel of Jesus Christ, and in so doing touched the lives of so many. A belief of Christ can be found in many ways, and is often found in the lives of others. I found much of the testimony I have from this wonderful woman. I am eternaly grateful to have Suzanne as my grandmother, and to have had 20 years of my mortal life with her companionship. I am also grateful to be spending my life now as a missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints sharing the testimony that she helped me find with the Korean people. "Families are Eternal" and I know that with all my heart.

Darrell Wattenbarger

August 30, 2003

My condolences. My Grandmother was Mary McKay from Sullivan County, Missouri.

Jeff Axson

August 29, 2003

Of course, Mary and I were shocked at the news, and extend our condolences to family members and other friends alike. I personally appreciate the many kindnesses shown to me by Tom and Suzanne in years past. I will never forget their warm home in Teton Valley with the many hours of playing cards and snacking on Suzanne's homemade fudge and divinity at Christmas. May God grant you peace and may the Gospel of Jesus Christ provide you the solace you need at this time.



Sincerely,



Jeff and Mary Axson

Norma S. (Nathan R.) Larsen

August 29, 2003

Thomas and family,

I am so sorry to read about Suzanne. I know that she is in a better place and among angels. I remember both of you from Ricks College.

I just lost Nathan to cancer on May 3. I hope Suzanne did not suffer very much. Please keep in contact.

I send my love to you and your family and I know the hurt you are feeling. Thank goodness for the internet. It is a good thing.

Your friend, Norma S. Larsen

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