Suzanne Jane Rivera

1964 - 2012

Suzanne Jane Rivera September 18, 1964 - May 13, 2012 Suzanne Jane Rivera (nee Brodie), 47, of Bakersfield died on Sunday, May 13, 2012, as a result of injuries suffered in a bicycling accident during the Mariposa County Women's Stage Race. A devoted wife and mother, Suzanne is survived by her husband of 17 years, Scott Rivera; and their children, Nicholas, 14, and Kate, 12. She also leaves behind her parents, Ann and Dr. Ian Brodie; and her sisters, Amanda Andres and Emma Terry. Suzanne was born on September 18, 1964, in Birmingham, England. Suzanne moved with her family to California when she was 8 but remained a British citizen her entire life. She spent her summers as a child in Wales with her mom and sisters while visiting her grandmother, whom she loved dearly. She was raised in Seal Beach and attended Long Beach State University before marrying Scott and moving to Bakersfield, where they raised their children. In addition to her family, Suzanne's passion was athletic endeavors. Suzanne had a genuine zest for life that influenced and inspired people, from family, friends, and teammates to people who praised her endurance and drive, telling her she motivated them. Suzanne had two unique dimensions. She was a very kind and soft person who wanted to please her family and others and who lived simply and naturally. She also was determined to excel. Initially, her passion was tennis; she played at Orange Coast College and Long Beach State. When she turned to running, she pursued the sport with intensity. She ran countless marathons, winning one. In recent times, she greatly enjoyed cycling, which she approached with her signature focus on excellence. She also continued her lifelong love of swimming that began when she swam competitively on the Seal Beach Swim Team. While pursuing her athletic endeavors, Suzanne would strive to make each day meaningful for her family. Every birthday, every holiday was a special event. Suzanne was a happy person who made other people's lives happier by her presence. Her enthusiasm for life and living was infectious. There was nobody who did not like her. In everything she did, Suzanne Jane Rivera lived by the motto, "Love is an action." She will be greatly missed by her husband, children, mother, father, and sisters and everyone who knew or ever encountered her. A memorial service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 19, 2012, at Greenlawn Southwest Celebration of Life Center, 2739 Panama Lane. For condolences please visit www.greenlawnmortuaryandcemetery.com. Greenlawn Southwest www.bakersfield.com/obits