Suzanne Elaine Dutcher

Suzanne lived a vibrant and full life, living most of her years in San Diego, California, with stops in Corona del Mar, California; West Palm Beach and Tampa, Florida; and her hometown of St. Louis. In her final years, she cherished the simple joy of living across the street from her daughter, son-in-law and grandsons in Mission Viejo, California creating precious memories and sharing in their everyday lives. She also developed great friendships with her new neighbors as it was always easy for Suzanne to make new friends.

In her youth, Suzanne was a spirited and active young woman, enjoying numerous clubs and activities at Beaumont High School in St. Louis including Majorettes, Sports Clubs, The Pepperettes, and the Duck Club. In her early adult years, she enjoyed a long and valued career with AAA where she also formed a lifelong friendship with Ginny Lewis. The two remained the best of friends until Ginny’s passing in 2011.

In 1961, while shopping with her mother in St. Louis, Suzanne met Jacob “Jake” Arthur Dutcher at a shoes store where Jake was a salesman. This chance encounter would become a lifelong love story. They were married on February 1, 1964, in St. Louis, beginning a marriage that was truly magical. Together, they traveled the world, embraced adventure, and remained devoted companions until Jake’s passing in July 2012.

Suzanne was a proud member of the Screen Actors Guild for 30 years. She delighted in her work as an actress, with appearances in films such as “Anchorman” and “Titanic”. She especially enjoyed the camaraderie on film sets and the opportunity to meet fellow actors. A true San Diego socialite, Suzanne loved volunteering at local events and sharing her fascinating stories from her life and times in the entertainment world.

Above all, Suzanne treasured her family. She found immense joy in spending time with her grandchildren and was a devoted supporter at their many sporting events. Known for her warmth and curiosity, she was a gifted conversationalist who enjoyed meeting new people.

Suzanne also had a deep love for animals, especially dogs, and adored her most recent companion, Ronnie.

She is survived by her daughter, Jennifer Suzanne (Dutcher) Michota; son-in-law, Michael Stanley Michota; and grandsons, Jaden Michael Michota and Evan Jacob Michota. She is also survived by her sister, Linda (Longwell) Connelly, and brother-in-law, Rick Connelly. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Jacob Arthur Dutcher, and her parents, Raymond Edward Longwell and Ella Emma Kottwitz Longwell.

A service to celebrate Suzanne’s life will be held on Wednesday, April 15, at 1:00 p.m. at El Camino Memorial – Sorrento Valley, 5600 Carroll Canyon Road, San Diego, California, with a reception immediately following.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Suzanne Dutcher’s name to the Zoological Society of San Diego, benefiting the Elephant Odyssey at the San Diego Zoo.

Suzanne will be remembered for her elegance, warmth, vibrant spirit, and the love she shared so generously with her family and friends. Her legacy lives on in the many lives she touched.