Suzanne Elaine Salerio

Suzanne Salerio (née Maison), aged 66, passed away peacefully on January 9, 2025, in Grosse Pointe, Michigan, surrounded by her loving family. Suzanne was born on August 20, 1958, in Detroit, Michigan, and was one of three cherished daughters of the late Marion and Jesse Maison. She was a proud graduate of Wayne State University continuing on to receive her Masters in Elementary Education in 1995.

Suzanne dedicated her life to music, education, and environmental stewardship. Her first career was as a professional classical bassoonist for more than 30 years performing with several ensembles including Warren Symphony Orchestra. Her second life-long passion was teaching elementary education for Anchor Bay School District from 1992 until her retirement in 2020. Suzanne shared her knowledge and instilled a lifelong love of learning in not just her students, but her friends and family as well. She believed that every person deserved the chance to grow and thrive, and her impact extended far beyond the classroom. She lived what she taught: You are never too old to learn.

A true nature lover, Suzanne found joy and solace in the beauty of the outdoors. She often spent her time bird watching, gardening, and exploring the natural world as she traveled with her family. She was inspired by the beauty of nature and loved dabbling in painting and photography. Her appreciation for the environment was something she passed on to her family and students, encouraging them to cherish and protect it.

Suzanne’s remarkable ability to teach, her extraordinary musical talent, her adventurous spirit, and her dedication to her family will be deeply missed.

She is survived by her husband, Charles Salerio, her daughters, Lisa Salerio, Diana Lako, Karen (Mike) Schutzler, Kara (David) Okonewski, and Angela (Neal) Salerio, her sisters Bonnie (Gerard) Powers and Audrey (John) Bamberger, her grandchildren Cassidy, Ava, Kayla, Brayden, and Norah, and her cousin Mary (Steven) Mackay. Suzanne's legacy of compassion and bravery continues to inspire her family and friends. Suzanne's warmth, generosity, and unwavering spirit will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

A Celebration of Life to honor Suzanne's life will be held on Saturday, March 29th from 11 am – 2 pm at the Blossom Heath Inn (24800 Jefferson Ave, St Clair Shores). Please RSVP by emailing the family at [email protected].

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to Leukemia and Lymphoma Society at https://www.lls.org/ reflecting Suzanne's battle with Lymphoma.