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Susan Steen Obituary
Susan Partain Steen passed away at her home in Greenwich, CT on November 10, 2014 after a lengthy and valiant struggle. She was born on March 1, 1962 in Pittsburgh, PA and grew up in Upper St Clair, PA, graduating from Upper St Clair High School in 1980. She went on to study art at Middlebury College earning her BA in 1984. She continued her artistic studies at the University of Wisconsin, earning her MFA in 1986. She held teaching positions at a number of excellent secondary schools including Brunswick School in Greenwich, CT and The Masters School in Dobbs Ferry, NY. After her children arrived, she was a substitute teacher in the Greenwich public school system. Her love of art was evident in everything she did. She was famous for her homemade Christmas cards and birthday party invitations and puppet shows. As much as she loved art, her first loves were her family and her friends.
She is survived by her husband, Erick, her children, Augusta and Nathaniel all of Greenwich, CT and her parents, Alex and Martha Partain of Upper St Clair, PA.
A memorial service will be held at First United Methodist Church in Greenwich on Friday, November 21st at 4PM. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the First United Methodist Church of Greenwich Susan Memorial Fund.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Susan Steen
Sponsored by anonymous.
October 7, 2016
While missing Susie today I am remembering this quote: "Don't Strive To Make Your Presence Noticed, Just Make Your Absence Felt"
a pink memory
Cindy Egeland
April 29, 2016
Jill Ann Biondo
April 28, 2016
Forever Young
November 10, 2015
Just stopped by your house....I love you and obviously miss you!
Love, Me
Jill Ann
November 8, 2015
Thinking of our friend. x0x0
USCHS Sewing Class - FRONT: Susie, Stacey, BACK: Jill Ann, Julie, Cindy, Ginny
Jill Ann
November 8, 2015
May 7, 2015
Lucy, Ellen and I seriously miss you all the time. I am so grateful to have had you for the short time I did. I love you!
Jill Ann
May 5, 2015
I know you are with me when I go out back and pick my basil leaves. I lean in and the aroma covers my fingertips & air. I feel the warmth and light of the sun. At that moment, you are present telling me how much you are enjoying this simple pleasure as much as I am. And although you do not have an earthly presence, I feel your heavenly spirit. Miss you x0x0
Cindy Egeland
March 1, 2015
So grateful for Susie's life.
Jill Ann
February 28, 2015
Susie, Thinking of you on the eve of your birthday. We always made fun plans to celebrate this occasion with each other and friends and there are plenty of wonderful memories associated with March 1st! x0x0
Ashley Orellana
December 27, 2014
You are deeply missed, Mrs.Steen.
Julie (Ross) Dixon
December 11, 2014
Susie and I first met in 5th grade and a lifelong friendship began. There are so many wonderful traits that I loved about her....delight rises to the top.
She delighted in so many things....France and blueberry picking....periwinkle blue and honey....lavender fields and dogs....music and paint....sun hats and gardens....good books and handwritten letters. But mostly she delighted in her family and friends. She had a way of looking past the bumps and rough edges in our lives and seeing the beauty instead. I know we all felt completely loved and appreciated by her because we were.
Friday night ski bus in high school was truly delightful. She'd fly right over the crest of the slope, arms flung wide, singing and laughing as she went. She hit some bumps and sometimes fell down but she always got up exhilarated and focused on the joy and delight of the moment.
That was her approach to life. She embraced the beauty around her as well as bravely facing the struggles. My prayer is that we honor her in the way that we move forward....that we follow her beautiful example and that we delight in this gift of life, deeply love the people around us and see beauty even when it's difficult.
Susie, you hold a special place in my heart that belongs only to you. You have given me a rare, special blessing with your friendship. I miss you so much.
My love and prayers are with her dear family. I love you all.
December 10, 2014
Susan and I met at Middlebury College in the early 80s. We would go dancing together, hang out at the chateau, go hiking and so much more. She saved me through those years, with her laughter, her grace, and her lightness of being. When I went through my battle with cancer, she would write me the most beautiful letters, which I have saved. After my treatment, I went to visit her in Madison and the visit to her studio enlightened me. She will always be a powerful spirit in my life. It will take me the rest of my life to truly comprehend the magic she gave to me. I am so sad for Erick, the children and family. I wish peace and comfort for you. I am so very grateful to have known your lovely Susan. xx Jenny (London, England)
Ci ndy Polachek Egeland
December 5, 2014
I am deeply saddened to hear of Susie's passing, knowing what a sweet sweet friend she was to many. I have such fond memories of our friendship in high school, particularly as flute friends and "tickled pinks". I am so sorry to hear of her suffering and am just relieved that aspect of her life is over. I hope to see her again someday, as we all do.
Denise Otis
December 1, 2014
I will miss Susan's upbeat spirit and artistic talents. I remember fondly her bunny-filled garden and delectable apple pie baking in the kitchen when our children played together in nursery school. She was so strong throughout her battle. My deepest condolences to Erick, Nathaniel, and Augusta.
Terry Kimball
November 29, 2014
Susan was one of the kindest and sweetest people I have ever met. A smile was on her face all the time and she possessed a quiet grace. She always asked about my son who was a two time cancer survivor even when she was so sick. That's Susan - always thinking of others! I will miss her. My thoughts and prayers to Erick, Augusta, Nathaniel and her parents.
Tickled Pink, Upper St Clair H.S., 1980
Jill Ann
November 29, 2014
Susie, I re-visit this site and my own memories every day as a way to comfort my soul. You have touched so many lives through your family, your friends and your students. Thank you for that, it is an inspiration to all of us. I miss you. x0x0
ELVIRA BRONHEIM
November 28, 2014
Dearest Susan,
I am still not reconciled to idea of not having you. I pass in front of galleries, and museums, and remember our talks, and my heart still breaks. And I remember you sketching and colouring by Raquette Lake, and the spots you were so fond of. There are so many Summer memories! You carried with you such graceful, kind, affectionate happiness. I am so grateful I have met you. I started drawing again, because of you. I started to bring the girls to museums to sketch statues, because we spoke of it.
You will always be in our hearts, dearest Susan. I will always remember how extraordinary and wonderful you were.
Lisa Moline
November 22, 2014
I've been thinking of Susan this week and want to express my condolences to her family and friends. She was a genuinely lovely person in that hot-house environment of graduate school. I have a wonderful print from a series of collaborations she did: a very talented portraitist, Susan would draw a fellow student in an etching, and that student would design his or her own background to print with the portrait. Mine is a portrait of Bruce Crownover; captures him perfectly!
November 22, 2014
Charming,sweet ,and bubbly.she will be missed
Elissa Casella
November 21, 2014
I didn't know Susan all that well. Her son Erick is friends with my son. But I always remembered her as being so kind and thoughtful. All I can say is now Susan has gone from a cacoon to a butterfly. She is no longer suffering. May this be of consolation to her husband, Erick and her children, Augusta and Nathaniel. I too lost my mother when I was very young. She had left behind my father and four children. I know she didn't not want to die. Just like Susan. What got my family through such a difficult time and still does get us through is knowing that she is at peace. Just like Susan is now. My thoughts and prayers are with you alwys Susan, Erick, Augusta and Nataniel.
Kathy Eshleman
November 20, 2014
I really didn't need a confirmation of Susie's bright smile, laughing eyes, and eager enthusiasm, nonetheless, I pulled out our Class of 1980 yearbook and reminded myself of all that she brought to our lives back then. Her academic and creative contributions will long be remembered and appreciated. Her friendliness and helpfulness toward everyone will never be forgotten and it is our great fortune that we grew to know her over our years in St. Clair. I'm not certain if I met Susie first in grade school or at Christ United Methodist, but I know how appreciative I am of the opportunity to have run into her at church on her trips back to Pittsburgh and to get caught up on the family that she loved.
To Mr. and Mrs. Partain and the entire Steen family, please know that while some of us cannot be with you in Connecticut to honor Susie's life on Friday, we will always be doing just that in our hearts. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.
Karen Zemanick
November 20, 2014
Sadness fills my heart but so do many, many fond and happy memories of Susie's spirited friendship at USC High School. My prayers and thoughts are with all of her family and friends who miss her dearly.
November 20, 2014
It is difficult to write anything original here, but maybe that's because there's such a clear consensus about Susan's wonderful qualities. No one could have missed her gentle kindness, twinkle, etc. It's rare to have a teacher who loved every student she taught, but I think she did. - Stephen Duennebier
Marta Gomez
November 20, 2014
Susan and I were graduate students together in the Art Department in Madison many years back. For this reason we saw each other often, sometimes only casually exchanging a few words, sometimes just smiles. But I remember her vividly as a constantly warm, friendly, and nourishing presence in our small sub-universe at that time. I am very saddened by her early death.
"Bud" Bogle
November 20, 2014
As the husband of Erick's cousin, Florence, I have always been very close to the Steens! The death of Susan, at such a young age just is so sad and I grieve for her and Erick and their 2 wonderful children, as well as her fantastic Parents! Susan; such a talented, brave, positive person! Never complaining tho' uncomfortable and frustrated, I will remember her for-ever!
The Brett Family
November 20, 2014
Our deepest condolences to Erick, Nathaniel, and Augusta.
Lori (McCracken) Zeswitz
November 20, 2014
My thoughts and prayers for comfort are with Susie's family. I recall Susie as a kind friend in high school; always uplifting and sweet.
Mary Lang Nickerson
November 20, 2014
I remember Susie from high school as the girl with the beautiful smile who was kind to everyone. She saw the best in others. The world needs more people like her!
Thoughts and prayers to her family and friends. Knowing her was a blessing.
Cate Partain
November 19, 2014
As Susan's aunt, I have had the delight of knowing this amazing, loving, gifted, down-to-earth, and soul-rich person all of her life.
Although the miles separated our families most of the time, still we enjoyed visits and some memorable holidays with Susan, Martha, and Alex. Always, any time spent in Susan's presence was sure to be full of fun, enriching, and always left us with a glow in our hearts. My daughters were younger and were inspired by and looked up to their cousin "Susie, Sue, Susan" whom they loved and enjoyed so much.
Our hearts go out to Erick, Augusta, Nathaniel, Martha, and Alex. Our loss of the continued presence of Susan in our lives is great and we know yours is beyond expression.
Much love to all of you,
Cate, Laura, and Rachel Partain
Marilyn
November 19, 2014
I remember many delightful conversations with Susan in the Children's Room at Greenwich Library. She would come with Augusta and Nathaniel and it was always a pleasure to see them. I'm so sorry for your loss.
Patty Waurishuk
November 19, 2014
To The Steen Family:
Thoughts and prayers to all of you. We are so sorry to hear of Susan's passing. I will always have fond memories of her. She was always the first to come out on the dance floor with me. She was an amazing woman with a lot of spunk and will be missed dearly.
Debbie (Slagel) Wilber
November 19, 2014
Susie was a childhood friend with whom I lost touch over the years. Her zest for life and caring ways will always be a part of who I am. I will never forget our amazing adventures - the European band trip, summer vacations in Nantucket, trick-or-treating, Popcycle stick puppet shows, playing in her tree house, and so much more. May her spirit continue to bless us all. My thoughts are with her family and friends.
Carol Pylant
November 19, 2014
Susan was my former student at UW-Madison. Twenty eight years later I still remember her laughter, her wonderful paintings and her kindness. Deepest condolences to all who knew her.
Margie Abrams
November 19, 2014
Erick: From the first time I met Susan -- on our double date, where you also met Bob -- I knew she was such a special person, and a beautiful match for you. She has the most gentle soul, and was always such a breath of fresh air to be with. Her body may have failed, but her spirit is strong and will stay with all of you, for always. Keep your mind and your heart open, and look for the signs!
November 19, 2014
I love you and miss you more with each passing day..with your help... we will keep an eye on things down here until the Sistahs are reunited. I love you with all my heart. Connie
Liz Novak
November 19, 2014
Susan was good to the core -- she was kind and generous to everyone she met. The world is a better place because she was in it.
Linda Rowe
November 19, 2014
Susan was my cousin and this loss is deeply felt in our family, even though we were widely separated by chronology and geography. Every memory I have of Susan is suffused with appreciation of her grace, kindness, talent and humor. My heart aches for those closest to her.
Ric Morgan (Joneson)
November 19, 2014
Deepest condolences to all those who's lives were touched by Susan's.
Debbie (Slagel) Wilber
November 19, 2014
Susie was a childhood friend with whom I lost touch over the years. Her zest for life and caring ways will always be a part of who I am. I will never forget our amazing adventures - the European band trip, summer vacations in Nantucket, trick-or-treating, Popcycle stick puppet shows, playing in her tree house, and so much more. May her spirit continue to bless us all. My thoughts are with her family and friends.
Don Larson
November 19, 2014
Susie was my friend in high school... She lit up any room she entered with her friendly and warm personality and her silly sense of humor. I was saddened to hear of her passing and my prayers are with her family. Susie, may you rest in eternal peace...
Lane Hall
November 19, 2014
I remember Susan well from graduate school years... she was always positive in her outlook, always pursuing ideas of the spirit in her paintings and prints. I am saddened by this loss, and my condolences go forth to her family.
November 19, 2014
Susan was one of the dearest and most talented individuals I have ever met. From the day we first met at Grad school commiserating with each other in the stairwell of 6th floor of the Humanities building, after rough critiques from our instructors, to the cherished visit last October in Greenwich when I got to spend time with her and her family, I have never known a person so full of life and love. Through everything she never lost her grace, humor and joy of creating. I will cherish these memories forever. Knowing Susan has changed me for the better, she taught me to never hold back a hug for someone you love. My heartfelt condolences to Erick, Nathaniel, Augusta and her parents.
Karen Kieffer
November 19, 2014
Susan was a true miracle and she was loved by everyone. My words seem confined because she was bigger and better than any word I could use. Susan was sweet, loving, creative, funny, brilliant, selfless, thoughtful, devoted, talented, strong, imaginative, driven, gracious, regal and hopeful. I will think of her when I see a beautiful painting, the ocean, Easter eggs ,a bunny, children, a church, Christmas cookies, and canvases. I will think of her when I watch a movie, read a book, listen to acoustic music, walk into a museum, plant flowers , set a pretty dinner table and when I " flick the lights to say goodnight" to the outside world. I will miss her when I need a friend or a mom's advice or a laugh or a walk into her world of art, beauty and gardens. Susan's passing is truly devastating. She will always be in my heart and I will see her in all that is good in this world. I love you Susan. My deepest sympathy to Augusta, Nathaniel, Erick, Martha and Alex... " lord of the manor". With love , Karen
Cathy Lavaty (Kelly)
November 19, 2014
Susan was our neighbor and friend. Her love and kindness shined in everything she did. Halloween was always a treat in our neighborhood when the Steen family rang the bell.
To Erick, Nathanial, Augusta, Wooly,
Alex and Martha we share our prayers for your loss. Susan has received her reward for a job well done. All of you will keep her spirit alive for us.
Cathy and Walter Kelly
Lisa Bologna
November 18, 2014
I was sorry to hear of Susan's passing. We met when our boys were in kindergarten. I always looked forward to seeing her at JC when the kids were little. I have vivid memories of her with the kids in the back yard on a beautiful warm afternoon. I think she invited a handful of boys over at the end of the school year and what she did with them was magical, creative, artistic and fun. She was just a lovely person with a beautiful heart. Thoughts and prayers to all of her family.
Diane Fine
November 18, 2014
I have fond memories of Susan's lovely presence in the studios at UW. I remember that she and her paintings shared a graceful beauty. My sympathy to you and her family and all her loved ones. May her memory be a blessing.
Tony Bielaczyc
November 17, 2014
I was very privileged to have known Susan. We knew one another in grad school at UW. She was hilarious, deeply talented, tender, thoughtful, generous, giving, smart as a whip, loving, kind, and one of the dearest people I have ever met. I have often thought of her and those treasured days, and always with greatest fondness. To her entire family I offer my sincere and heartfelt condolences.
Phyllis McGibbon
November 17, 2014
Susan and I shared an apartment during our last few years in grad school. I remember many wonderful conversations at the kitchen table- thinking about art, about relationships, about learning to teach drawing… Susan was a rare, poetic soul with a keen eye, quick mind, and kind, generous spirit. She was truly beautiful, on so many levels. I feel so grateful to have benefited from her creativity, grace and humor and offer my deepest condolences to Erick, Nathaniel and Augusta, and her parents.
Tracy Honn
November 17, 2014
Condolences to Susan's family and friends. She was a gifted graduate school colleague--full of grace, spirit and gentleness. I am sorry for your loss.
David Lentz
November 17, 2014
In the course of treatment Susan encountered a medical setback which made it difficult for her to paint, as she was accustomed, with her right hand. Nobly and with the brilliant life force which radiated from within her, she continued to pursue and illuminate her art by painting with her left hand, determined to understand whether this approach would bring a new artistic style to bear upon her work. Such inspiring courage and integrity is a mark of genius and illustrates her power as an painter by bringing to bear in her work a life force which continues to live as a great legacy to accompany that of her life and love of her family. Once she kindly gave our family a jar of honey from one of the honey beehives that she tended and the jar bore a label which, to paraphrase, read: "How can you know the purity of the honey unless you know the beekeeper?" As a wonderful neighbor to us, those privileged to know her can attest to the purity of her sweetness and love of her family and friends. We picture her in heaven painting effortlessly with her right hand. Susan's loving spirit is illuminated from within and will endure always. She will live forever within the hearts of everyone blessed to know her.
Anita Jung
November 16, 2014
I offer my deepest condolences to Susan's family. Susan was a wonderful artist and I was fortunate to be in graduate school with her. She will live on in her work, our hearts and her beloved children.
Daniel Arnould
November 16, 2014
I met Susan only once, maybe in 2011, at a gathering in Old Greenwich. I remember vividly a shining, communicative smile. Our very best to her family. Daniel Arnould and family
Kim Sachse
November 16, 2014
Keeping Susie's warm and generous heart, her creative spirit and her whimsical self close to my heart, and praying for Erick, Nathaniel, Augusta and Susie's parents. Rest in peace Susie.
Beth Sax
November 16, 2014
Rest in peace Susie ~ my sweet, talented, quick-witted, artist, friend since Kindergarden pal. I miss you. Love, Beth
Ann Baldwin
November 16, 2014
Beautiful friend, may you rest in peace. Beloved friend, thank you for sharing your many gifts - art, humor, intelligence, and kindness - with your family, friends, students, and fellow travelers. We will love you forever.
Susie's Beautiful Artwork
Jill Ann Nieri Biondo
November 15, 2014
What we have once enjoyed from Susie's life, we can never lose because all that we loved about her has became a part of us. She was as real as a person could be. She asked for help when she needed it and she showed her fears when they popped up. Susie was a teacher by profession but also by example. She shared lessons of a giving spirit - her smile, kind words, encouragement, creations & art from her heart, stories of the people she loved, silly sense of humor that broke the ice or invited others into the circle or gave fun memories of shared time together. I am forever grateful for these gains and equally sorry for our loss.
Prayers continue for Erick, Nathaniel, Augusta and her parents whom she loved so much. May the memories of Susie's vibrant spirit help you to find peace . . . until you meet again. I am sorry for this deep loss. x0x0
November 15, 2014
Susan was a beautiful joyful spirit. God Bless you Susan.
Margriet Finnegan McGowan
Ted Stolar
November 15, 2014
Susan, was such a bright creative star in my life.
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