Obituary of Susan Jean TOWNSEND

Susan Jean Townsend, beloved mother of Brenna Townsend, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Saturday, February 13, 2016 at the age of 58 years. Besides her loving daughter Brenna, Susan is survived by her mother, Lucy Steffler, her brother Peter and two sisters Jayne and Jeanette. She was predeceased by her father Gerald Steffler. Susan grew up in Edmonton, Alberta and obtained a Bachelor of Science in Speech Pathology and Audiology with Distinction 1980, Master of Education 1990, and Master of Speech Language 1999 all from the University of Alberta. A few years after the joyful arrival of her daughter, Brenna, on October 17, 1990 Susan moved to Red Deer, Alberta as an instructor in the Rehabilitation Medicine program at Red Deer College. Susan was in the final phases of completing her Doctorate in the Interdisciplinary Graduate Program at the University of Calgary. As a dedicated life-long learner and scholar, Susan was particularly passionate about health care ethics, and in improving the well being of vulnerable peoples. Susan enjoyed the endless beauty of the earth. She was an enthusiastic gardener, traveller, animal and nature lover, and loved to explore her own creative abilities. Sue had a great sense of humor and valued passing time reading or chatting with close friends and family. A celebration of Susan's life will be held at The Calgary Zoo (South Terrace of the Enmax Conservatory; parking is paid for in south parking lot by administration) on Saturday, February 20, 2016 at 11:00am. In the spirit of the celebration of Sue's life, dress is casual and colourful (no black please). Advise on wearing something light, as one area of the conservatroy is fairly humid. In theme of her gining spirit, included is admission into the zoo, so you and your loved ones can enjoy. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting that donations be made directly to Agapé Hospice, 1302 - 8 Avenue N.W., Calgary, AB T2N 1B8 Telephone: (403) 282-6588.