Funeral homes often submit obituaries as a service to the families they are assisting. However, we will be happy to accept obituaries from family members pending proper verification of the death.
Susan Kay Collins Stebner passed away Nov. 14, 2024, at age 74. Though she lived with both cancer and dementia, Sue never lost her sense of humor. Born in Hood River to Catherine (Perkins) and Charles “Bud” Collins, she was the granddaughter of Hood River residents Marian (Dakin) and Claude “Sarge” Collins.
Susan graduated from Hood River High School in 1968 and from the University of Oregon in 1972, earning her degree in journalism. Susan met her husband, Grant Stebner, in Eugene and they were married in 1974 at Hood River Valley Christian Church. Daughter Sara was born in 1981. Susan is preceded in death by Grant.
Susan worked for Meier and Frank in Portland, Oregon, as manager of broadcast advertising for 20 years. She made wonderful friends during her time at M&F, many of whom continued to check in on her until her passing. After retirement Susan loved to travel, visiting family and friends in California, Hawaii, Alaska, Saskatchewan, Playa Del Carmenm Mexico, New Zealand and Zambia.
Charlotte Smith Arnold, Sue’s high school classmate, wrote the following lovely remembrance: “Susan was a Braveheart who battled cancer for many years. We’ll remember her calm and beautiful personage, quick wit, wry sense of humor, her frankness with a flair, and uncanny ability to converse on every subject. Sue had diverse interests in life, never shied away from trying some-thing new, was athletic on the ski slopes and sophisticated in business and leadership. Sue was multi-talented, but never boastful. We’ll remember her quiet, but strong demeanor. She was a great friend to many, a love filled soul, dedicated professional and a compassionate and loving daughter, sister, wife, mother and grandmother.”
Susan leaves behind her daughter Sara (Dom) Stelter; grandchildren Cate and Grant; sister Carol (Kai) Pajala; sister Leslie (Gary) Hidle; sister-in-law Judy (Norbert) Thurmeier; nephews Erik (Caley) Hidle, and Tyler (Erin) Thurmeier; nieces Anna Hidle, Kari (Nate) Hidle, and Tricia (Jason) Neumann; and wonderful cousins locally and throughout the country.
A celebration of life luncheon will be held Saturday, May 31 at 11 a.m. at Hood River Valley Christian Church. Susan will be laid to rest privately.
Susan was not able to return messages from her friends during the last year of her life. Her family would like to thank everyone for their concern and encouragement. Donations may be made to the Hood River County Christmas Project, P.O. Box 872, Hood River, OR 97031. Her family has helped with this project for many years, beginning with Grandpa Sarge Collins in 1939.
To plant a tree in memory of Susan Stebner as a living tribute, please visit Tribute Store.
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Keep it Clean. Please avoid obscene, vulgar, lewd, racist or sexually-oriented language.
PLEASE TURN OFF YOUR CAPS LOCK.
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