Suzanne Elizabeth Walsh

1940 - 2016

WALSH

SUZANNE ELIZABETH (O'HEARN) was born to Mary Alice (Donnelly) and Dr. James J. O'Hearn in Chicago, Illinois on January 26, 1940, the second of five children (Mary Kathleen Lund, Mary Sullivan, Molly Cavin, the late John O'Hearn). Sue was raised in a loving, Catholic family which served as the model for her great life's work as a nurse, wife (Chris Walsh), mother of nine (Brigid Lossing, Suzanne Walsh Montuori, Kate, Chris, Terry, Brendan, Tim, Beth Walsh Sahutske, Ann), volunteer (Beaumont Bon Secour Hospital, Society of St. Vincent DePaul) and devoted caregiver to all. Sue was the center of a great family, with 21 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. She filled her days with love from and for them all. Sue met her future husband Chris while studying at St. Mary's College, when he was attending nearby Notre Dame. They were married in 1960. Together they built their family while moving several times, settling finally in Grosse Pointe in 1976. A graduate of Catholic University in Washington DC, Sue's career in nursing and healthcare fit her natural instincts of care and compassion. Her excellent sense of humor, keen intellect, selflessness and strength shone as an example to all those around her. Counted among the many who will miss her are the Ladies of the Ancient Order of Hibernians. (How Sue loved her Irish heritage!) Her life was one of constant activity, ever serving as the counselor, companion, friend and facilitator that the moment required. Up through the night with a sick child, ministering to the homebound, routinely preparing a meal for 20, guiding the conversation away from conflict to thoughtfulness; whatever she could do, she would do - and then a bit more. She was often the smallest person in the room, though she lit it up with her beautiful smile, shining eyes and enormous heart. She wasn't tall or loud, though she towered over all by her example. Her acts of kindness are uncountable and unforgettable. Now they form the masonry of a permanent memorial she leaves behind. All those who knew her are left to admire it in wonder and gratitude. Visitation will be 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. Thursday, October 27, at Verheyden Funeral Home, 16300 Mack Ave., Grosse Pointe Park. Rosary recitation will be at 7 p.m. A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m., in state at 10:30 a.m., Friday, October 28th, at St. Ambrose Catholic Church, 15020 Hampton St., Grosse Pointe Park. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Capuchin Franciscan Province of St. Joseph, 1820 Mt. Elliott, Detroit, MI 48207.

www.thecapuchins.org