Susan Mary Dwyer

Susi passed away very suddenly and unexpectedly September 19, 2013 at the Kaiser Emergency Room.

She was born August 24, 1946 in Pittsburgh, PA., the second daughter of Lt. Col. (Ret'd.) James G. (Jim) and Denise Behen (Denie) Dwyer. Susi was predeceased by both her parents.

An Air Force Brat, Susi traveled and lived in many states and several foreign countries, including Okinawa, France and her much beloved Italy, where she attended the American high school at Camp Darby in Livorno. Susi attended Chico State College, Sacramento State College, and received Bachelor's and Master's degrees from National University. She was a long time resident of Rancho Cordova.

Susi taught first grade at St. Mary's Elementary School in Sacramento for 30 years, and taught either first or second grade for 15 years at Cordova Meadows Elementary School in Rancho Cordova, totally investing herself in teaching and in her students. She spent countless hours outside the classroom arranging activities and clubs to enrich her students' lives. Susi retired from Cordova Meadows in June.

Surviving are her sister Kathi Dwyer Lucas (David) of Durham, NC, nephew Dave Lucas (Kelly) of Overland Park, KA, nieces Carey Lucas of Durham, NC and Jenny Lucas of Brookline, MA, great nieces Abbie and Katherine Lucas and great nephew David III (Trey) of Overland Park, KA.

Susi was a loving and generous friend to many people, and over her lengthy career, a devoted and beloved teacher to many hundreds of students in Sacramento. She will be sorely missed by her friends, and even more by her family.

Friends will be received Sunday, Oct. 6 from 4-7PM, Rosary at 6PM, at Nicoletti Funeral Home. The funeral will be Monday, Oct. 7 at 10AM at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Sacramento. Following a reception in the Parish Hall, Susi will be laid to rest in Mount Vernon Memorial Park in Fair Oaks.

Donations to a scholarship fund in Susi's memory at St. Mary's School (for low income students), or donations to a memorial fund (for special needs) at Cordova Meadows School, are welcome. Flowers are also acceptable. The family is under the care of Nicoletti, Culjis and Herberger.