Susan Marie Waki

Susan Waki passed away on May 31st 2017 at Legacy Meridian Hospital from metastatic breast cancer. We thank all of the health professionals from Legacy, OHSU and the Knight Cancer Institute for their care and compassion over the past 2 1/2 years since her diagnosis.

Susan was born October 7th 1960 to Warner and Barbara Lawson in Birmingham AL. Due to Mr. Lawson's career with the railroad, they traveled and moved many times before settling in Evansville IN, where Susie went to high school and attended college. Her older sister Donna enticed her to move to the San Francisco Bay Area where she settled and met her future husband David Waki. Susie was never one to shy from an adventure, after their wedding they quit their jobs, and traveled across the country to Florida, and finally settling in Georgia, where their son Collins was born.

Susie's boundless energy fueled her entrepreneurship and she opened a successful children's gymnastics business, which used a positive reinforcement philosophy that was a foundation of her own personality. She never forgot the great times she had with Miss Jenny and Miss Malinda.

Dave's job then took them on their next adventures to Minnesota, and finally to her beloved Oregon. Susie had always loved animals, especially dogs and in particular golden retrievers. She taught herself to be a certified dog trainer learning so much from sensei Cindy. Susie was also giving of her time and talents, volunteering at Project POOCH with Joan Dalton as well as other charitable activities. She then learned about a new dog sport Canine Nose Work, and worked hard to become an instructor and host trials. Her excitement was contagious as she converted countless pet owners to this sport. Susie had definitely found her tribe and passion in building her business Educating Fido. Her students became lifelong friends and were the bedrock of support during her illness. Many thanks go out to the network of friends, family and the nose work community for all the visits, meals, cards, and prayers. Susie's care staff mentioned more than once that they never saw any patient with as much support as Susie.

Susie is survived by her husband Dave, son Collins, mother Barbara, sister Donna as well as extended family. In lieu of flowers we ask donations be made to the Knight Cancer Institute or Matavivor.

https://www.onwardohsu.org/donation/take-down-cancer-0

https://secure.metavivor.org/page/contribute/default

Arrangements under the direction of Young's Funeral Home, Tigard, OR.