Kathryn Dean Suse (James)

Kathryn Dean (James) Suse of Lee’s Summit, MO passed away April 23, 2020 in Leawood, KS. She was born on February 21, 1957 to Woodford and Mary James in Higginsville, MO, where she grew up. The youngest of 5 children, she enjoyed spending time with her extended family & school friends, reading, playing piano and listening to her vinyl music collection (especially The Beatles). She graduated from Lafayette County C-1 High School in 1975 and went on to earn her Bachelor of Science in Education from the University of Central Missouri in 1978. During her freshman year of college she met the love of her life, Gary Suse. They were married in Higginsville June 3, 1978. They made their home in Lee’s Summit, Missouri. Kathy began her career as a teacher immediately after college, but would soon opt to stay home with her children, Kristy and Katie. Kathy loved being a stay-at-home mom and enjoyed a close relationship with both of her daughters. She returned to the workforce in 1998 as a kindergarten teacher at Peculiar Elementary, where she taught for 11 years. She went on to earn her Master of Science in Education from the University of Saint Mary in 2005. Kathy and Gary enjoyed traveling to many places such as Australia, Bahamas, Florida (including many wonderful Disney World trips), Myrtle Beach, and last but not least, their favorite - Branson, MO. Kathy loved spending time with her siblings as well as her many high school friends. She was a loving and devoted friend who was an outstanding listener. She had a fantastic sense of humor and an infectious laugh. She could not have been more proud of her family, and was especially thrilled to become a grandma in 2006 to Seth. Grandma was Seth’s favorite person and they enjoyed a special bond that will live with him forever. 4 years later Macy was born, and Kathy opted to retire from teaching to care for her. She and Macy were best friends, and enjoyed spending every day together until Macy went to Kindergarten. While Brody and Brynlynn never had the opportunity to know her prior to her diagnosis, they enjoyed finding ways to connect with their grandma. Brody took a special interest in bringing her a treat for every visit and Brynlynn enjoyed her grandma cuddles. Her grandchildren were the light of her life and they love her so much. Kathy will be remembered for her kindness, her gift with children, appreciation for education, and her selfless, giving heart. Kathy is survived by her loving husband Gary Suse; daughters Kristy Hooper (Nick) and Katie Zeiger (Chris); and grandchildren Seth & Macy Hooper and Brody & Brynlynn Zeiger. As well as her 4 siblings and extended family members. The family is planning a private graveside service and will welcome family and friends to a Celebration of Life in the coming months. Kathy had been afflicted with Primary Progressive Aphasia, a frontotemporal dementia since 2009. This disease slowly took her from her family, and her loved ones are relieved she has moved on to an existence that she deserves. Memorial contributions may be made to the Mesulam Center for Cognitive Neurology and Alzheimer’s Disease. https://www.brain.northwestern.edu/about/giving.html. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.speakschapel.com (Arrangements: Speaks Suburban Chapel 816-373-3600)