Susan passed away suddenly on Wednesday, April 1, leaving behind a vast circle of family and friends who adored her beyond measure. Known for her generous spirit, infectious laughter, and endless love, Susan was truly the heart that connected us all.
A proud Cuero girl, Susan reigned as the Queen of the Jack Daniels van, cheered fiercely for her Cuero Gobblers, bled burnt orange for her Texas Longhorns, and proudly deadlifted 344 pounds. She earned her associate’s degree in Drafting with Honors from Durham Business College and went on to build a remarkable 44-year career as an AutoCAD draftsman and technician with Carlson Brigance Doering. Dedicated, talented, and loyal, Susan’s work left its mark across Austin including her infamous stars and stripes on the renowned Austin Formula 1 Racetrack and her iconic logo for the Overlook at Lewis Mountain.
Susan became an ordained minister to marry the adored children of her Austin Angel Family and was affectionately known by many names including Aunt Susu, Susaloo and Suber. She loved scrapbooking, storytelling, reality and Hallmark television and kept up with all the hip news on Instagram. She gave freely, never expecting anything in return, and had that rare gift — she could “talk to a fence post and make a friend of it.” Wherever Susan was, that’s where everyone gathered. She was our center.
Susan is preceded in death by her parents Pat and George Olson, and her sister Sharon Parker.
She is survived by her sister Saralee Wittmer, her brother George Olson, and their families, including many nieces and nephews who will continue to carry her in their hearts.
Susan is deeply loved by her Austin Angel family, who shared every moment with her — from birthdays and holidays to rowdy adventures with the UT Flask People.
Pallbearers are Jeff Hess, Hunter and Tristan Webb, Zachary Bales, Matthew and Brady Turner, Kraig Bonzek and Tom McCarty.
Honorary pallbearers are Armando Cervantes, Geoff Guerrero, Rafe Jackson, Danny Keeling, Jeff Kline, Randy Larson, Eric Rivera and Mav Turner.
Visitation will be held from 4-6 p.m., Sunday, April 12, at Cook-Walden Funeral Home, 6100 North Lamar Blvd., Austin, Texas.
Services will be held at 11 a.m., Monday, April 13, also at Cook-Walden Funeral Home. Texas Longhorn Tailgate attire is acceptable to wear for the service. Please share Susan’s love for the Texas Longhorns and tailgating.
There are countless stories and cherished memories of Susan — every one full of laughter, loyalty, and love. Her warmth and light live on in all who knew her.
Susan — never forget “OU still sucks” and we’ve got four words for you: “Horns Up! Left hand.”
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Heart Association.
