Suzy Donenfeld Katz

1947 - 2019

Suzy Donenfeld Katz

Palm Springs - Suzy Donenfeld Katz died peacefully on June 1, 2019 at the age of 72. Suzy was born into a loving family on May 24, 1947 in Dayton, Ohio where she spent her childhood. Throughout her life, Suzy was a loving and devoted, daughter, wife and sister. Surviving Suzy are her husband of 47 years, Bennett Katz her brother, Doug Donenfeld, both living in Palm Springs and her adorable dog, Sidney. Suzy was a loyal and nurturing person whose overriding concern was the welfare of her family. As a young girl, Suzy was active in many sports, but her first love was dancing of all types. She first started dancing at the age of 5 and at the age of 13 was one of the youngest performers to become a member of the Actors Equity Union. Suzy spent her summers dancing in summer stock in Ohio with the Kenley Players. Upon graduating from high school, she attended the University of Oklahoma, graduating with a B.A. in education. Upon marrying Bennett in 1971, she lived in San Francisco and served as the administrator of a large law firm in the city for many years. In memory of her parents, Suzy and Bennett founded the Katz Cancer Resource Center in the Dominican Hospital in Santa Cruz, California. In 1987, her husband, Bennett, without her knowledge entered her in the Mrs. San Francisco beauty pageant. She went on to win in San Francisco, became Mrs. California and in the final national competition was crowned Mrs. America. During her married life, Suzy developed a strong affinity for golf and became an excellent golfer, winning the club championships twice at Canyon Country Club and twice at O'Donnell's Golf Club. Although there is a big whole left by Suzy's death in the hearts of her family and friends, there is great solace in knowing that she is at peace. Funeral services for Suzy will be held on Thursday, June 6, 10 AM at Forest Lawn Chapel, 69855 E. Ramon Road, Cathedral City, CA. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Suzy's name to the Katz Cancer Resource Center, Dominican Hospital Foundation, 3150 Mission Drive, Santa Cruz, CA 95065.