Susan Payne

Susan Skeem Payne
December 30, 1944 – October 31, 2015

Our beloved Susan Skeem Payne passed away peacefully on Oct. 31, 2015 while in the presence of her devoted husband, Leslie. As she prepared for this momentous transition, Susan spent her final months basking in the boundless love of her family and friends.

Born on Dec. 30, 1944, Susan made her home in places all over the world including Idaho, New York, Italy, England, and Utah. Susan was always happy to share herself with others, and along the way she had many opportunities to teach. She taught English to passionate Italians; she taught sales and nutrition through Herbalife and Amway; she taught Macrobiotics and tasty cooking to hungry and dedicated foodies; and she spent over 20 years sharing with others her one true passion as a Park City realtor. Between moments in her busy life, Susan always found time to go for a "nice, long walk." Through neighborhoods, towns, or villages; day or night; snow or sunshine; Susan relished the abundance that surrounded her.

Susan shared her life with her husband of 35 years, Lez Payne, her three daughters Brandi Prescott, Charmene Prescott, and Kimberley Castro, along with her four wonderful grandchildren: Kenton & Royce Prescott and Sabine & Tristan Bohn. Susan grew up in a loving family and is survived by her father and step-mother, Wayne and Arlene Skeem; brothers Dan Skeem, Tom Skeem and Rob Atkins; along with sisters Jill Lundgren, Cindra Eardley, and Rebecca Dixon. We lovingly remember her mother and step-father, MaryLou and George Atkins, and her brother, Christian Skeem.

True to her spirit, Susan's love and openness allowed her to speak with interest and excitement about the next phase of her journey. Although we will miss Susan's beautiful place in our lives, we'll honor her spirit every time we turn up the music or dance in the car; when we rescue an animal or worry about its health; when we watch a funny video; savor our food; play an endless board game; or drink a morning cup of tea. And best of all, we'll think of her when our day-to-day lives ask us to be as loving, kind, and as heartfelt as Susan would challenge us to be.

We'd like to extend a special thank you to the wonderful staff at Yarrow Hospice who offered endless guidance and support. We couldn't have offered Susan such a comfortable and enjoyable last few months without the devoted care of Tom and Jill Skeem and Susan's phenomenal family and friends.

A celebration of Susan's life will take place from 6-8 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 9 at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East in Salt Lake City. For those who wish to say a few words, there'll be a small service from 7-7:30 p.m. and all are invited. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations support The Sierra Club. Please visit: LoveSusan.net.