SUZANNE GERMAIN BISHOP

Suzanne Germain Bishop, age 71 years old, passed away peacefully on February 28, 2017. Her devotion to her family and her steadfast belief in God supported her through her life and ultimately gave her peace. Suzanne was born on June 17, 1945, to Peter and Ruth Germain of Fresno, CA. She had a joyful upbringing surrounded by a close knit family. As a young girl, she spent countless hours reading and daydreaming of horses. In high school, she excelled in academics and swimming, earning honors in both areas. She had a compassionate and adventurous spirit. Suzanne married her high school sweetheart, Jim Bishop, in 1966. She earned her Bachelors degree in Business and her teaching credentials from California State University, Fresno, before becoming the first women to receive an Master of Business Administration from Fresno State. For 15 years, she happily taught elementary school for Kings Canyon Unified School District in Reedley. When she was no longer able to teach physically, she threw herself into many other endeavors including freelance writing, bookkeeping, chairing the Arthritis Association, and involvement in her children's activities. In 1986, Suzanne and Jim purchased the Master's Helping Hands, a Christian based housecleaning service. She grew the business from three employees to 20. She excelled as a small businesswoman, becoming a member of Fresno Executive Women, Fresno Women's Network, and Leadership Fresno. She was nominated for Fresno Business Woman of the year in 1989, and 1991. Despite her physical limitations, she was determined not to be held back by her illness. Her strong will to live astounded her family, friends and doctors, and was a testament to her faith in God and to her many amazing doctors. Special thanks to Drs. Jackson, Limova, Polglase, M. Reedy, and S. Sekhon. Suzanne and Jim spent over 55 years supporting each other and being one another's biggest fans. They had a wonderful life raising children, teaching, auto racing, volunteering, and celebrating life's joys and sorrows together. They recently celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on December 30, 2016. She was preceded in death by her parents; sister Marilyn; and brother, Peter Germain, Jr. Suzanne is survived by her husband Jim; son, Jimmie Bishop and his wife Patti; daughter, Janine Bruce and her husband Ian; grandson, Colin Bruce; granddaughters, Noelle Johnson, and Samantha Esparza; and sisters, Annette Schletewitz, and Emma Jeanne Stonacek. A Memorial Service and Celebration of her Life will be held at Wesley United Methodist Church, 1343 E. Barstow Ave., Fresno, CA, on Saturday, March 25, 2017, at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be sent to the Arthritis Foundation; Holt International Adoption Agency; or S.P.C.A.