Southwick – Susan A (Bates) Sanders, 61,(1956-2018) passed peacefully at home surrounded by loved ones. Born in Yonkers, New York, Susan lived in Southwick for nearly 61 years. She married her high school sweetheart and built a beautiful life in Southwick. Susan was a heart transplant recipient, and was passionate about educating others regarding organ donation and giving the gift of life. She has said goodbye for now to her husband, Kirk Sanders, her children, Jessie, Kimberlie and Kyle and their partners Mike, Sam and Halie. She leaves behind her parents Larry and Eleanor Bates of Southwick, and her father-in-law William Kenneth Sanders, of Southwick. She leaves her siblings, Paul and Kenny Bates, and her sister and best friend Jeanne Stromgren and her siblings in law Dawn Turgeon, Kris Sanders and Kenny Sanders as well as many nieces and nephews. Susan will be remembered for her spirit of love and eternal optimism, and her ability to find joy in tiniest of blessings. The family will gather and welcome friends to celebrate her life from 1:00PM – 5:00PM on Sunday February 18, 2018 in the Southwick Forastiere Family Funeral Home, 624 College Highway (Highway 10/202), Southwick. A Memorial Service will take place at 10:00AM on Monday February 19, 2018 in the Southwick Congregational Church, 488 College Highway, Southwick. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited. Susan’s family wishes to thank her donor for the amazing gift of nearly 10 years of life and love. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to New England Donor Services at www.neds.org/give or by mail to New England Donor Services, 60 First Ave, Waltham, MA 02451. Please visit www.forastiere.com to offer a personal expression of condolence.
