Obituary of Susan Y. Matsumoto

Susan left us on March 7, 2024,  following a “long goodbye” to her family and friends.  She had been residing at Sunset Villa in Ontario, Oregon for almost two years prior to her death.  Even as she continued to experience a decline in her functioning, she managed to engage staff, other residents, family and friends with her humor and personality.

Susan was the first child born to Toby and Marjorie Matsumoto. She and her parents lived in Brogan , Oregon where her father was employed on a farm.  The family later relocated to Ontario, Oregon when her parents found jobs in town , and Susan was joined by the birth of her brother, Nolan.  Much of her childhood was spent with her Murata cousins, and an expanded family developed.  Susan has always been a part of the Murata family. Although she’d moved away, she returned to care for her mother until her death in 2009.  Later, she made numerous trips back to Ontario to visit and help care for her Auntie Grace….frequently taking her on trips, outings and simply being present. The Murata family will forever be grateful for her presence during that time.

Susan also remained in touch with her Mother’s family, engaging in events and maintaining  relationships with the Yoshida families. She valued those family ties as evidenced by their ongoing contact and their concern for her wellbeing.

After graduating from Ontario High School, she attended Treasure Valley Community College.  During that time , she was employed at Eastside Florist, where her love for plants and flowers flourished. Later, after moving to Tucson, Arizona, she was again employed with another floral  business. In 1977, she became employed with the Tucson City Police Dept. as a dispatcher/ first responder.  When she retired, 33 years later, she was was honored as an outstanding officer, noting her “dedication, humor and an incredible work ethic”.  However, her job was was not only a “job”.  Many of her co-workers and their families became Susie’s “Tucson family”.  She regularly shared her culinary delights ( homemade goodies and cooking)with these friends on holidays, their family gatherings/special events and “ just because”.  Her generosity and thoughtfulness were well known.  She has been rewarded by their continued contact, support and love.

Mostly, Susan will be remembered for her love of animals.  She rescued homeless cats and dogs, making them a part of her personal family.  She saved many of their lives, giving them a quality of life that many of us would envy. Her volunteer and advocacy work at an animal shelter occupied much of her retirement interest as she used her own resources to provide them with safety and integrity.  In return, they gave her loyalty and love becoming the heart of her home.

In 2021, Susan was diagnosed with a progressive debilitating disease.  Despite her stubbornness and desire to remain independent, she took a leap of faith to return to her family in Ontario and accepted assistance for her safety and long term care needs.  Although she didn’t like giving up her independence, she expressed her appreciation for the comfort and care she received .  We thank her friends and caregivers at Sunset Villa and Signature Hospice for their compassionate care, and to her “Tucson family” for their ongoing support and efforts to encourage and involve Susan in their lives.  And to all those pets she took in, “ thank you” for the unconditional love that only pet groupies can give.  Thank you, Susan , for being a part of our lives,,,,

A Farewell Memorial Gathering will be held  at Lienkaemper Chapel in Ontario, Oregon on March 25,2024, between the hours of 3-5 pm.  The family invites you to share your memories /stories and  “goodbyes” to Susan.