Susan Luella Custance

Susan Custance, beloved sister, mother, grandmother, and friend-known earlier in life as Susan Peebles and born Susan Luella Martin-passed away peacefully on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, at her home in Mount Vernon, Washington.
Susan was born on March 12, 1949 in Bellingham to Avery and Norma Martin. She spent her early childhood on Orcas Island before her family settled in Sedro-Woolley and later Clear Lake, where she grew up alongside her siblings, Diane and Avery. She graduated with the Sedro-Woolley High School class of 1967, a group she remained deeply connected to throughout her life, helping organize frequent reunions and monthly gatherings so her classmates could remain connected.
A lifelong learner, Susan earned a degree in Speech and Special Education from Western Washington University. She later went back to school for her administrative credentials with the goal of becoming a school principal. As part of this pursuit, she was honored to receive a grant that allowed her to travel to Russia-an experience that remained one of the proudest and most impactful milestones of her academic and professional journey. Susan also taught science as an adjunct profession at the University of Hawaii for a few summers, developing curriculum that left a lasting impact.
Susan spent many years working at Evergreen Elementary School, where every student carried a special place in her heart-often greeting them by name and a special memory if she ran into them out in the community. She later worked with Job Corps and subbed at State Street High School in Sedro-Woolley, where she continued this legacy of helping students find their purpose.
Susan's life was not defined by her career alone. After marrying Michael Custance, the two of them built a life rooted in service and community. They served together on the board of Friendship House; remained active in the local grange, Fredonia in Mount Vernon; and poured their energy into Bethany Covenant Church, where Susan taught Sunday school for several years. She also played in the church's bell choir, with her love of music learned from her grandmother, Lucy, who first taught her to play the piano.
Creativity, generosity, and storytelling defined Susan's life. She and her mother, Norma, often gathered to crochet hats and baby blankets they donated to the charity, Pregnancy Choices. She was a gifted artist, exploring crafts, watercolor painting, and glassblowing to name a few. She also had a passion for cooking and canning, once dreaming of starting a catering business after retirement. There was never a moment you entered her home where she didn't have some new art project or recipe to share. Susan's love for storytelling carried her into schools, senior centers, and libraries, where she inspired both children and adults with her words.
Family traditions were at the center of Susan's life. She cherished Christmas gatherings, road trips filled with singing instead of radios, and the laughter of family sharing simple moments together. As a girl, she was remembered as a spirited tomboy who also delighted in ballet and tap dance lessons. In her later years, she wrote a family history and cookbook, preserving memories and recipes that will be treasured for generations.
Susan is survived by her children: Andy Peebles (Christy) and Seth Peebles; stepchildren: David Custance (Kris), Wendy Custance, and Cynthia Schatz (David); grandchildren: Melissa Michels (David), Ariel Peebles, Andrew Peebles, and Isaac Peebles; step-grandchildren: David Custance, Pepper Custance, and Kaia Custance; and great-grandchildren: Jace Streul, Jade Streul, and Evelyn Michels. She is also survived by her sister, Diane Bergman (David); brother, Dr. Avery Neil Martin (Lisa); and many extended family members and friends who loved her dearly. She was preceded in death by her parents, Avery and Norma, and husband, Michael Custance.
Susan often said, "Love you to the moon and back." Her family and friends now hold those words close, a reminder of the limitless love she gave and the legacy she leaves behind.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Friendship House or Bethany Covenant Church.