Since hearing of Suzie's sudden illness and subsequent death, I have thought of the roll she played in my life and how lucky I was to be guided by her in my formative career years. I didn't understand at the time the level of patience and amount of grace she had. I was young and passionate, fiercely outspoken and Suzie always held space for me (even when  it wasn't easy to).  She allowed me to be who I was, never silencing me and simultaneously modeling for me what it was like to be a leader. When I left CPT to pursue my graduate training, she not only wrote me a glowing recommendation letter, she made it clear to me that she knew I would be able to do well, even when I doubted myself. Who knew graduate papers would be a breeze after her red ink editing of my reports all those years? 

 We shared a love for kids and a passion for doing the right thing. We were both protective of the people we loved, and for us family and friends topped that list. I was able to thank her throughout the years but now it feels like not quite enough. I wish I could tell her one more time, thank you...I am who I am because you were you were. You will be remembered and missed....may your memory and legacy live on through Steve, your children, grandchildren, CPT family and all the lives you've touched.

I knew Suzie mainly through my colleague of 26 years, Steve, and some work and family events. Our hearts ache for this family and their sudden loss. She was an angel on earth. My memory of Suzie is at Ryan’s, pre-wedding festivities, where she was glowing with joy. 💕

She was a wonderful mother, wife, daughter, doctor, and much more. May her goodness and love forever give the family strength and perseverance. 

Much love to the family. 

Sincerely, 

Yareny and Eddy Valdes

There are no words I can express to describe the sorrow I feel during this tragic time. I will never forget Suzie, her dark sense of humor and the many laughs we shared. I pray you find solace and  strength to move forward.

My heart breaks as I write this but Dr. Dandes, deserves the recognition. My journey with The Child Protection Team started in February 2018 and I can attest as how blessed I was to work under her supervision. 

Dr. Dandes' leadership, guidance and dedication to our team will never be forgotten. I've learned so much from her as a boss, mother, wife and friend.
I will miss our inside jokes, dark humor and overall interactions. 

She's had my back in ways, others may never know and believed in my skills. I truly thank God for her.  Our CPT office  will never be the same but her contributions will live on. 

To Steve, Erin, Ryan, Spencer and those grand babies, I'm thinking of you all and remaining in prayer, as you celebrate Suzie's remarkable life. 

With sincerest love,
Sandra Castillo

It's truly hard writing this but her greatness must be shared. I worked at The Child Protection Team for five years and what a privilege to work under Dr. Dandes. I'm thankful to have learned so much from her professionally and personally. The job was not easy but we loved it. It was so great brainstorming cases with her and figuring out what the best solution for keeping children safe. She was a true rock star in the child welfare world! CPT will definitely not be the same without her love and knowledge. She had such a great impact on me and I'm thankful for the opportunities she gave me in this lifetime. I will miss your smile, sarcasm, and even the corrections you gave me all those years. I'm glad I went back to visit the office last year and got to catch up with you. My heart is very heavy because what a loss. May you rest peacefully Dr. Dandes. 

With so much love, 
              Bridget

I first became acquainted with Susan Dandes in 2005, as my supervisor when I was hired as a case coordinator with the University of Miami Child Protection Team.  Throughout my twelve years there, I saw her as more than that. She was a "Mama Bear" to us case coordinators, giving us clinical guidance on cases, support, and mostly, showering us with all the Mischa's Cupcakes and treats from Nothing Bundt Cakes she could bring to the office.  When I would stay past closing time to send her a report to review, she  would often reply, "Go home!" 
Though I work for the Child Protection Team in Tallahassee,  I have emailed her a few times I still remember the times when she would offer me chocolate and other sweet goodies.  Like everyone, I too am heartbroken. I know that the Miami office will never ever be the same. It's like losing a tooth and your tongue notices that only an empty space remains. To her loved ones (family and work family), I sent my most sincere condolences. I pray for comfort during this trying time. You all will be in my continual prayers!
Leslie <3

I was privileged to know Suzie and the kids through her dear husband and my friend Steve. Suzie was a loving wife, mother, and proud grandmother. Through her devotion to her work at UM Child Protection Services she helped and made a difference in the lives of many kids and families in need. She also loved her many family pets and all canine pets —man’s best friend.   
Suzie”s sudden illness took us all by surprise and we all prayed that she would pull through. 

My sincere condolences to her family. I know that Suzie leaves her devoted husband Steve, her children and beautiful grand children wonderful and unforgettable memories that will live forever in their hearts. 

Suzie was an inspiration to her family and friends and will never be forgotten.

Anyone privileged to know Susan was blessed -- by her warmth, intelligence, and humor. If a relative had a mental health issue, even out of state, Susan found the perfect therapist. She was a wife, mother, grandmother, friend, and dog lover of the highest order. In 2011 she convinced our family to adopt Vienna, a strange looking little dog Spencer and friends rescued literally from the streets near the Falls, and Vienna brought us years of joy. My dear friend Barry at UM Peds testifies about Susan's amazing professional work on behalf of endangered children -- is there any higher calling than that? We followed Steve's messages following Susan's sudden illness with fear,  but also hope that this amazingly strong woman would pull through. News of her death is shocking and terrible. We will miss our dinners together where we compared notes on the ups and downs of parenthood and grandparenthood, as well as the ups and downs of our beloved Canes. Deepest condolences to Steve and family -- your amazing Susan was a true light to all who knew her, and members of the community who never met her. May her memory be a blessing.

A KISS for my sis. Susan was such a dear friend of mine.  Full of laughter, wit and a great heart.  I can’t imagine her not in our life anymore. Susan filled my world with love , she definitely is a huge loss not only to me, but our community.   I love you Susan❤️❤️🌸🌸, will be in my heart everyday!!

OBITUARY

Susan K Dandes

March 24, 1961 – May 21, 2025

Riverside Gordon Memorial Chapels at Mount Nebo/Kendall Memorial Gardens

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