Susan M (Unruh) Johnson

Susan Marie Johnson was born September 17, 1961 in Perryton, Texas. Her family moved to Dodge City, Kansas when she was 10. Susan grew up there and eventually joined the Army for 6 years; spending time in Germany and Arizona. The latter is where she met her husband and later friend, Steve Johnson. Steve and Susan settled down in Lakewood, Colorado and had us two kids . She worked as a postal clerk for nearly 30 years.

Our mother was so special. She always told us, “You don’t have to be anything. It’s enough that you just ARE.”  Life to her was about being in the moment and enjoying the little things. She appreciated nature, animals, and loved to garden. She also loved antiquing and going to auctions. She was an artist—she made quilts, beautiful cross stitch pictures, and scrapbooks. Upon retiring, Susan volunteered at an animal shelter in Wright, Kansas and also transported dogs to no kill shelters.

She fought cancer for over 14 years, and was stage 4 for 9 of those years. It was the hardest thing in the world for us when the cancer moved to her brain, but she told us repeatedly, “this is going to be a beautiful experience for all of us.” Every day we would ask her how her day was, and she’d say “I’m having the BEST day.” She was the most grateful and positive person we’ve ever met. We told her how sorry we were that she was going through this, and she’s said, “Don’t be, I treat this as a gift.” She looked at every life experience as something to learn from. She was so strong and taught us so much. We are so grateful for the time we had with her, and to be blessed with such a beautiful soul as our mother. As the end of her life approached, she said “I’m not afraid. If this is dying…it’s wonderful.” Shortly after, she passed away peacefully at home in her own bed, surrounded by family. She will be missed.

Lindsey (daughter) & Steven (son)