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On September 18, Susan Leitz Cahn died peacefully in bed, following a long struggle with Alzheimer disease. Her Alzheimer disease did not define her.
She was born in Canton, Ohio, enjoyed the arts and music, and as a girl played violin. She studied Art History and teaching, and went on ton teach elementary school students in Ohio. She met a young doctor, Peter, completing his graduate training in state, and they hit it off. They married and had 3 sons, to whom she was a great mom.
She didn't stop her learning. She got her master's degree in Psychology and worked in Indianapolis as a family therapist. She continued to study art and architectural design, and she produced a documentary on the Midwest architect Evans Woolen for public television. She continued her own artistic pursuits, including creating religious themed ceremonial pieces for family, friends, and others in the community. She also occasionally acted as host and moderator of the Sunday morning TV show, "A Jewish Perspective," on Channel 8 in Indianapolis.
A devoted member of the Indianapolis Hebrew Congregation, she served on the Congregation board and Sisterhood committees; she worked as a facilitator for a support group for intermarried couples, with the goal of helping them communicate, manage differences, maintain goals, and to feel welcomed as part of our community.
Those who knew her recall her vibrant, creative personality. She adored all her grandchildren, and did an admirable job of tolerating her three sons (a challenging task at times). In her last days, she was able to be surrounded by the love of her family, and she was able to reciprocate. And she went out singing.
She is survived by her sons, Jordan, Andrew, and Seth (and his wife Victoria), and her grandchildren, Cara and Anna, Aaron and Sophia. We will remember her humor and spirit, her wisdom, and her unwavering support for those she loved.
On Sunday, September 21, 2025, a graveside service will be held at 2:00 PM at the Indianapolis Hebrew Cemetery North in Westfield, Indiana.
Memorial contributions may be made to Indianapolis Hebrew Congregation DONATE TO IHC ,or to Alzheimer's Association.
Arrangements entrusted to Aaron-Ruben-Nelson Funeral Home.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
11411 N Michigan Road, Zionsville, IN 46077
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