Suzanne Gail Underwood

Sue was born on April 19, 1943, to Kenneth and Dorthy Knerr in Yakima. She spent all her life in the area and went on to earn a bachelor’s in education from Central Washington University.

Talented and passionate, Sue inspired Kindergarten and second grade students for 30 years – all while building a family of her own with husband Marvin, whom she loved eternally.

Sue found joy in many walks of life, from painting, music and dancing and taking trips with Marvin. Wherever she was, it was accompanied by a laugh.

Nothing was more important than her family. She passed down her spunky spirit through generations, to her children Katie Sue and Patrick and then grandchildren Taylor, Carson and Mitchel. Their best days were spent gathered together during the holidays, thinking of ways to make one another crack a smile.

Later in life she was accompanied by her sweet cat Tabby. She kept her spirit and sense of humor as she bravely fought dementia with her sister Katie and daughter Katie Sue by her side.

Sue spent the last four years residing at Avamere at Englewood Heights, which the family would like to extend gratitude to the compassionate caregivers that aided her. Those also include most recently the healthcare professionals at Sunnyside Health Center and Valley MultiCare in Spokane.

Sue is preceded in death by husband Marvin and son Patrick. She is survived by sister Katy Barge (Rick), daughter Katie Smith (Josh), nephew Brent Larsen (Ana), niece Jennifer Larsen and grandchildren Taylor (Rachel), Carson and Mitchel Newquist, along with many of Marvin's immediate and extended family.

The family will hold a private memorial at a later date; arrangements are being made by Hazen and Jaeger Funeral Home in Spokane. The family kindly requests that memorial donations be made in Sue’s memory to the Dementia Society of America, a nonprofit organization supporting education, awareness, and care for people living with dementia and their families.

Donate online: https://www.DementiaSociety.org/donate

Your gift will further programs and resources for those affected by dementia.