Susan Beth Anderson

Susan Anderson born on January 2, 1957, in Oak Park, Illinois. She lived a life filled with love, joy, faith, and devotion to her family and to God. She is survived by her husband of 47 wonderful years, Ken; their daughters, Melissa and Kiersten; son-in-laws, Kyle and Ruairi; and four grandchildren whom she adored: Hannah, Harper, Noah, and Margaux. Growing up she was a very talented and driven classical pianist and had the honor of being invited to play as a guest soloist with the Chicago Symphony. She attended Glenbard South High School where she continued her love of music by being involved in choir, drama, and cheerleading. Throughout high school, she spent countless hours working in assisted-care facilities always drawn to helping those in need.

When it came time to decide on college, Susan was faced with a choice to major in either music or nursing. Ultimately her heart led her to nursing. She attended Valparaiso University, earning her Bachelor of Science (BSN) degree and later specializing in Oncology Nursing.

Valparaiso also brought her the greatest blessing of her life—Ken. They met on January 12, 1976, and it truly was love at first sight. They married two and a half years later while still students. Upon graduation, they moved to Wilmette, Illinois, where Susan worked at Northwestern’s Kellogg Cancer Center. In 1984, tired of Chicago’s endless gray winters, they packed up their Honda and headed to Los Angeles. They believed God was leading them to California, and their story of finding jobs and a home was clear evidence of His plan. Susan began her professional career at the UCLA Medical Center, later becoming the Lead Administrative Nurse at UCLA’s Boyer Cancer Center.

In 1993, the family moved to Bell Canyon and joined The Church at Rocky Peak, where Susan’s faith deepened and her community grew. She selflessly decided to pause her career in order to raise her daughters, Melissa and Kiersten, and help care for Ken’s mother who was battling terminal cancer. During those years, she led Girl Scouts, taught Sunday School, was actively involved in National Charity League with her daughters, and poured herself into all aspects of her family’s lives. Susan also loved painting, a talent she shared with her mother. Her favorite painting was of Mt. Haleakala, inspired during Ken and Susan’s 20th anniversary dinner in Maui.

It was during that time that Susan also answered another call from the Lord, one of the most significant chapters of her life. The call to serve first as a Group leader and later on as the Teaching Leader in Bible Study Fellowship; where she served for over 20 years. As the Teaching Leader, Susan led more than 400 women each week. For Susan, it wasn’t a burden, it was a privilege and a joy to serve the Lord and others in that role. Susan was an incredible leader, teacher, mentor, and example to many in their walk with the Lord. She was used by the Lord in mighty and extraordinary ways to impact His Kingdom.

Susan loved being a grandmother. When Melissa’s family lived in California, she jumped at every chance to babysit or participate in her granddaughter's lives. As a wife, Susan was truly Ken’s partner in every way. She supported his career, handled the long hours and travel, hosted last-minute dinners and attended countless business events. She was always up for new adventures. Susan was the glue that held the house and family together.

When their daughters married, Susan and Ken began traveling more, though their favorite trips were always the ones where the entire family stayed under one roof. One of their most meaningful journeys was to Israel, where they walked the paths of Christ and biblical history with their pastor. It strengthened their faith deeply. A mission trip to Zoe International in Thailand opened Susan’s heart to children rescued from trafficking. She dreamed of funding a safe residence here in Southern California for youth. A dream now becoming reality, with construction set to begin in early 2028.

Susan’s Life Group at Rocky Peak and many close friends were incredibly important to her especially during her five-year battle with Lewy Body disease. She bravely tried new treatments, stayed open to every option. She remained surrounded by love especially from her devoted caregiver whose kindness brought her peace and comfort every day.

Susan passed away peacefully at home on November 28th. She had many accomplishments but will be remembered most for her love of Jesus, people, and her strong faith. Even when things got hard and through the very end of her life, she was strong and courageous; a fighter who truly trusted the Lord with a peace that surpassed all understanding. 

May we honor her by living with the same faith, kindness, and compassion she showed so naturally throughout her life.

In lieu of flowers, friends and family wishing to honor Susan’s life are invited to make a donation to ZOE INTERNATIONAL which will be designated to the building of a new Los Angeles home to be known as the Susan B. Anderson Residence for Children.

ZOE INTERNATIONAL
Re: Susan B. Anderson Residence for Rescued Children
P.O. Box 221510
Santa Clarita, CA 91322
Telephone: 661-255-7963
https://gozoe.givevirtuous.org/donate/susan-anderson