Obituary of Susan M. Russell

57, of Santa Barbara, passed away unexpectedly, Thursday, March 20, 2014. She was born to the late David and Marjorie Stevens, in Kenosha Wisconsin, September 23, 1956, the youngest of five children. Susan graduated from Tremper High School, received a Bachelors degree from Golden Gate University and a Masters degree from California State University Northridge. She was married to Curtis Russell on November 7, 1984. She was a devoted and proud wife, mother and grandmother. She loved to travel and view the beautiful sights of Santa Barbara. She enjoyed working out at the gym, walking with friends, scenic motorcycle rides with her beloved husband, walks on the beach and spending time with her children, whom she was so proud of, and her young grandchildren. She volunteered her time at Direct Relief and worked for GTE and the City of Santa Barbara before her retirement in 2005. She had the kindest of hearts and feistiest of spirits. A caring and giving person to the end, she donated her organs in hopes of saving the lives of others. She is survived by her husband Curtis, daughter Nicole Van Dyk, son Ryan Russell, grandson Mason Van Dyk, granddaughter Charlee Sue Van Dyk, sister Patricia Ringhausen and brother Daniel Stevens. Susan was preceded in death by her parents David and Marjorie Stevens and sisters Kathy and Dixie Lee. Family and friends are invited to attend a celebration of Susan's life at Casa Las Palmas at Chase Palm Park, Saturday April 12, 2014 at 10 am.