Sue Loweree

28 mai, 1938 - 23 juin, 2020

Biographie


This is a very long, amazing story, I tried to cut short. Please excuse my short-winded writing. This is a lot to share!

Mary Sue VandenBrink was born May 28, 1938 in Sioux City. The place she has always called home. She spent her childhood there with her loving parents George and Lucile VandenBrink and brother John. Then they lived in Omaha for a bit before moving to Towson, MD when she was in high school. That was where she met Don Loweree, walking to school together. He went to Gilman and she went to Towson High. Their relationship grew and they were married at the age of 22. They had 10 amazing years together (before kids). Sue attended Parson's school of Design in NYC. She was a model and actress, running around the city streets. Excited to be there. She had a tiny apartment with a view of the East River. Don was in the military and they would see each other off and on, until he finally made it to NYC and worked at a boat yard while attending Columbia and night courses at Princeton. Then they moved to New Orleans, where Don attended Tulane and Sue became interested in gardening, painting and learned to play the harp. Then back to White Plains (just outside of NYC) for another round of the city. They played music together with musicians like the Simon sisters and Bob Dylan. They were hobnobbing their way around New York, before moving to the Bahamas, where Sue enjoyed white sandy beaches and Don taught sailing school. It was there that Don decided he wanted to become a boat builder (custom yachts). They moved to Trappe, MD on the eastern shore. Sue was a house wife and soon mother of 2, Andy and Annie. When the kids were little Sue and Don played in several bluegrass bands. She played the standup bass and Don, the banjo. She had a voice like no other. She really knew how to light up an audience. After about 10 years in Trappe, they decided to move to a bigger house on the water. It was their dream home. A 3-story Victorian home on a peninsula where 3 rivers joined together. Sue made beautiful stained-glass transom windows and spent most of her time working in the yard, making amazing gardens. As the family grew into “teenage” years, they moved into town, Easton, where again, she turned a boring yard into beautiful gardens. Sue was also a wonderful mother, volunteering at the schools, teaching art classes and started an amazing theatre group at the high school. She was in an adult theatre group as well in Oxford, MD, acting and directing. The family took many trips, up and down the east coast, along with vacations to Paris and Machu Picchu, also spent many days in Ocean City and Rehobeth beach. Don and Sue continued playing music together. Recorder groups, the bell choir at the Methodist church, various singing groups. Sue played piano all the time, ragtime piano was her favorite. The list goes on and on with Sue's musical talents. And then there's painting. Watercolor was her favorite. Iris’ were her favorite subject. She was a very talented artist and continued painting throughout her life. Once the kids left the nest, Sue and Don divorced. At that time, she became a gardener, working on million-dollar estates on the water. Sometimes she would sneak a swim in the customer's pool, just to cool off. She loved getting her hands in the soil and making everything beautiful. She attended the Unitarian Church in Easton, where she made many friends and sang in the choir. She joined a poetry and writing group. She learned how to play the guitar and played and sang for gatherings and venues. Sue then got together with Sidney Dixon for a few years. They went on a race around the world in a modified ‘68 Rambler (London to Sydney Marathon). She was the co-pilot, seeing the world at high speeds. At one point during the race, she suffered from heat stroke in India and believed she saw the afterlife. She also spent some time with Johnathan McClain, who took her to Belize to learn how to deep-sea dive. She’s terrified of swimming down deep and enjoyed the sunshine instead. Jonathan got Alzheimer’s disease and eventually moved to a senior care home, where Sue visited and took him to lunch often until he passed. As she started realizing that life is short, she took more vacations to see her brother John and his wife Ellie and their family, where they enjoyed sharing old memories and making new ones. She also reconnected with her girl scout troupe and went on many trips around the country with them, again, sharing old memories and making new ones. Those vacations became yearly events for her, and she looked forward to those times. After Jonathan passed, she became more and more interested in writing and wrote and illustrated a children’s book (Butterflies Don’t Bark). At the age of 70 she commuted to night school at University of Baltimore, after gardening all day. She received her bachelor’s and master’s degree in creative writing. She then started collecting all the writings from her Mom and Dad and began writing memoirs of their life. A few years later she had a mini-stroke, which prompted her to move west. Sue and Annie drove her “house-full” of belongings across the country where she then settled in Durango. She bought a condo and nested in, making new friends at the Unitarian Church and a poetry group, along with being introduced to some of Annie’s friends. She was able to reconnect with Don and had lots of fun times with her daughter, Annie and family, AJ, Taylor and Kylie. She also had many trips to Santa Fe to see her son, Andy and family, Soma and Lila. It’s so great that towards the end of her life she was able to reconnect with family and friends everywhere. Sue Loweree had an amazing life. She lit up the room with kindness and happiness wherever she went. She made things beautiful. She truly cared about everyone she met and will be greatly missed. An amazing daughter, sister, wife, mom, friend. She did it all. Now she’s free.

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Famille

À propos de

Nom Sue Loweree
Date de naissance 28 mai, 1938
Date de décès 23 juin, 2020
Ville natale Sioux City, IA, US 
Autre ville Durango, CO, US 
Famille

Famille

Frères et sœursJohn VandenBrink
ParentsGeorge VandenBrink, Lucile VandenBrink (Nickle)

Erreur

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Andy Loweree a publié un hommage .

On the Eastern Shore playing bluegrass and then classical in the same day-

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John Purcell a publié un commentaire .

At 88 years old, I'm saddens to find Sue's obit. I ice skated with Sue at Carlin's Ice Rink when she lived in the Rodger's Forge Community on Dunbarton Ave. and I attended Baltimore Polytechnic Institute. I was very shy, but Sue became my good friend there with her caring personality. She was the must pleasant and cheerful young lady I ever knew. I will see her again in eternity. RIP, Sue.

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Mary Ocken a publié un hommage .

I noticed in an earlier posting that the link to Sue’s memorial service had gone bad. So I went looking for it and found it. Here it is:
https://youtu.be/TtMKX07hbwI

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Annie Williams a publié un commentaire .

Thank you for sharing. I updated it on the event page.

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Annie a publié un hommage .

Here's a fun one ... she lived in 20 homes!

1938-1949 111-23rd, Sioux City, Iowa
1949 5208 California St. on the corner of Happy Hollow Blvd.
Omaha, Nebraska
1952 133 Dumbarton Rd., Baltimore, Md.
1953 405 Carolina Rd., Towson, Md.
1957 East End Hotel, N.Y.
1958 Don’s apt. on 81st
1961 Brooklyn Heights
Cottage in Warwick, R.I.
New Orleans, Mrs. Lewis
Bald Hill Manor
Silver Lake, Lydia King, Eloise Swarz
GRAND BAHAMA
Bailey’s Neck, Easton, Md.
Baildon, Trappe, Md.
Bloomfield Rd. Easton, Md.
Trippe Ave., Easton
15 Sycamore
Sidney – St. Michaels
Richard Lomuccio – Sharp’s Is., N.Y.
115 Hollyday St. Easton
1100 Goeglein Gulch

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Niki Patton a publié un commentaire .

Love that you have this list...

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Mary Ocken a publié un commentaire .

I noticed in an earlier posting that the link to Sue’s memorial service had gone bad. So I went looking for it and found it. Here it is:
https://youtu.be/TtMKX07hbwI

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Annie a publié un hommage .

I am finding treasures .. including Sue's treasured moments ..

TREASURED MOMENTS

Wedding day – plane to England
Standing at back of auditorium on grad day
Shoot the duck
Apt. in New Orleans
Launching Amulet
Holding kids for first time
First audition – St. James
Building snowman with Don
Meeting Eloise Swarz at party
Meeting LB
Easter in Covington, La. With Nikki
Driving into Baltimore
Martinis at Paris embassy
Painting Trimpers merry-go-round
Taking cig. Boat down the Tred Avon
Sailing Mary Sue into Newport cove
Reading Rec. Society roster at Baildon
Playing Ado Annie, Maria, Blanch,
Putting on Blanche suit
Rally start in London
Hearing yellow sub song in Bombay

A note about treasured moments: Within nano-seconds I came up with 21 thinking I might flesh out a few. My mind wandered on to being gratefully aware of having lived a long enough life to provide buckets-full of memories. They tend to pop into my days like dream fragments awakened by whatever is in the moment.
Going through linens.
Lace tablecloth –
Realizing how completely inappropriate it is in this new chapter
Remembering Mom’s table and grandmother’s table
Folded linen napkins
Alter guild could not have been more devout
Level of caring - purpose

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Marcia Secord a publié un commentaire .

Annie!
If only we could hear her expand on the moments!
Marcia

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Annie a publié un hommage .

Here's a poem that was going to become another children's book. Maybe I can make it happen??

A THREE SIDED WORLD
This two-legged world this equal- sided place
All you have known is a symmetrical face.
What if the world was some other way?
What if you awoke to a three-sided day?

Think how different life would be
If instead of two, you were born with three.
Three arms and legs, three eyes and ears
Three bumps in the front, three bumps in the rear.

Which leg would go first when you went up the stairs?
Would you buy socks by triples instead of by pairs?
If you crossed your leg when you sat to have tea,
Would both legs cross on the middle knee?

How many arms would there be on chairs?
Which hand would you use when you brushed your hairs?
In football you could run and kick at one time
Half a team in soccer would do just fine

Ice skaters would be something to see
As they span and jumped around on their three
Ballet would be magnificently grand
With opposite kicks from a single toed stand.

Instruments and music would be all changed around
Three little ears would want triple edged sound
A band wouldn’t march to a four-four beat
Just imagine a parade with all of those feet


And think of the flute centered on the mouth
With finger holes headed both north and south.
And on the guitar what could be done
With fingers in the middle and two ends to strum

Or it might be arranged the other way ‘round
With two necks for chords and one body to pound
And what about folks who wanted to dance?
Would three bunch together in a triple romance?

If the world was threes, imagine your pets
Fuzzy six legged friends going to three legged vets
Birds hopping around on three skinny legs
Would build triangular nests and lay prismatic eggs

Oh, this two sided brain with two eyes to see
Cannot imagine a world of three
From trees great big, to bugs very little
All things known have been split down the middle

And yet some people act so strange,
They seem to live way outside the two range
Pretending to be a two legged two
So they can live their three life right beside you

When someone like that comes tripling along
You try not to think they are terribly wrong
You chat, you joke, you have a nice time
You listen to their thoughts with an open mind

But while you listen to their three sided view
You hear what they say with the ears of a two
While they make you think in a different way
As if you awoke to a three-sided day

-Sue Loweree

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Annie a publié un hommage .

And another .. I know she loved this car. It was her work horse. :)

I am a gardener. I have been for about 15 years. I drive around in a grand old station wagon. I drive around from customer to customer and keep things looking pretty. I’m not a horticulturist or landscaper. All of my favorite tools are in the back of that car. Nurserymen and garden centers I deal with have wonderd for years why I don’t get a truck. But this wonderful car serves me well. My horitcultural version of how many freshment you can get into a telephone booth. That car has been stuffed full of plants. The point here is not the car, it’s the tools. After 15 years of working in various gardens, I have a set of tools that serve me well. They are the staples. Buying tools is very personal. Like a jewelry bos. What is the collection. What is the all time stable of favorites, of old friends that have served so well, that help solve most of the problems that arise. What do you really have to have? Choosing tools is a very personal thing...saying someone after this many years of living, what are the basic pieces of jewelry you have to have. It’s personal. At least this could be a good starting point for cleaning out the shed and winding up- what necessary tools, or someone starting out with an empty shed. What do you need?

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Shirley Stern a publié un hommage .

My mom married John VandenBrink in 1983, and that union included Aunt Sue. What a wonderful woman! Although we didn't see each other often, I being in CA and Aunt Sue in the East, I enjoyed updates from John, meetups in Chicago where John lives, and her annual Xmas letters. I especially appreciated her artwork and commissioned her to do 2 paintings. One was for a gift to a retiring boss, and the other as a gift to my husband. She did an awesome job back in '94, (see attached) and is a constant memory of Aunt Sue, that as I walk past it I smile at it everyday! She will be dearly missed! My thoughts go out to the family.

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Annie a publié un hommage .

So thankful for all who were able to attend Sue's service. There will be more in Easton and Sioux City next summer. Here are the links to her service and photo sharing.
Sue Loweree Memorial Service: https://youtu.be/G2axPkXxeII
Family Photos Slideshow: https://youtu.be/EXEkdKQuIww

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Annie a publié un commentaire .

You should be able to select the links and copy/paste into a new browser window.

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Donna Osterby Brien a publié un hommage .

Nice going, Donna! - actually a fairly difficult concept to synthesize and portray in such a clear, graphic way. The white hand REALLY DOES THE TRICK! You’ve created a stellar interpretation. Now let’s see where it lands - if anyone catches the “ball.”
Fun stuff. Thanks for making it happen! Our collaborating after all these years is a poem in of itself.

Love, Sue

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Donna Osterbybrien a publié un commentaire .

Moving from Maryland to Colorado, from the familiarity of living for fifty years in one town to calling the strangeness of new streets and faces home, from the independence of home ownership to the smaller digs of a condominium, from mid-life toward the final chapters, from physical agility toward the slow infringement of bodily limitations; all amount to change, but, while throwing away treasures collected through 79 years of life, I am struck by the metaphoric parallels between physically moving across the country and mentally moving into a very different stage of life. I feel like the poster child for evolution. The painful, but freeing exorcising of past lives exposes the bare truth of dying backward in order to live forward. Apprehension and fear of unknowns float through the purgatorial no-where months of not belonging to where I have been or where I am going. During this unsettling time I recall a dream, which might seem unrelated but gratefully, it shifts my thinking toward broader horizons.

In the dream I was led to a playing field with the understanding that I would be shown an analogy of how life works. The field was crowded with lacrosse players wearing many different colored jerseys and all tossing lacrosse balls that matched their color of jersey. As I tried to make sense of what appeared to be chaos I realized orange players were consistently trying to throw their orange ball to another orange player and so it followed with all the diverse colors. I came to understand that what I thought of as color was, in reality, the radiated soul energy of the player. Every individual tended to gravitate toward those of a similar color or energy. What I thought was a ball was in fact, an orb of soul, an idea, or way of understanding things. No score was kept. There were no winners or losers. The universal objective of everyone on the field was to move in their way with the empowerment of their color group toward their perception of the light.

That dream serves me well when I need to be reminded of the bigger picture. In this instance the daunting prospect of overwhelming change is quieted and modified to simply thinking of moving along the playing field knowing that wherever I am there will be players with my color of jersey and together we will empower each other and keep the game going.

My daughter and I drive across the country in a truck filled with remnants of my past lives. We pass through cities and towns, as if we are closing chapters urging us toward the next dot on the map, like my color of ball bouncing into the future.

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Tracy Korb a publié un commentaire .

Beautiful, thanks for sharing, Annie.

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Rita Barker a publié un commentaire .

Sue had many gifts
I am moved to tears as I read her account of her “Playing Field” dream.
Even in her dreams she produced thought provoking poems and lessons from life. As I read, I could almost hear Sue’s voice.

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Rita Barker a publié un hommage .

Ann, I am so sorry for your loss. Your mother was a remarkable woman—as you know I am very grateful that I got to know her Sue was a member of our UU Fellowship in Easton, Md
where I also attend

Sue’s cheerfulness was contagious. She spread her joy through sharing her many talents: her lovely voice, musical talents, poetry and acting skills. And, many a Sunday, sitting at church service, I could feel Sue’s kindness in the creative bouquet of flowers she took the initiative to creat for our service
I will surely miss Sue.
She left me and many others with wonderful memories

My love and care go out to you Ann and to your family

Rita B

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Soma a publié un hommage .

I just love the joy in this photo from the early days on the Eastern Shore!

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Ann Smith a publié un commentaire .

She could sing and dance and make music. She could write and draw and paint. She was funny and kind and generous and absolutely in love with life. She always had a unique point of view and a talent for nurturing other people's creativity. In her eighties she still had the enthusiasm of a puppy when she got excited about an idea. As a member of the Art and Aesthetics team of the Durango UU Fellowship Sue was spearheading the development of our First Annual Ekphrasis Exhibit and I am thrilled to learn (reading here) that her Iris poem and painting are already ready and waiting for us to display whenever we are finally able to gather again in the Bowman Hall art gallery. We didn't get nearly enough of her here in Colorado but her precious and luminous spirit and the treasure of her friendship will live on. In her book, "as if by Magic" there is a chapter titled, MAYBE IN HEAVEN where she muses that she'll finally have enough time to play that harp! At last.

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Soma Franks a publié un hommage .

From left to right Andy(son), Lila(grandaughter), Helen And Soma. We miss you!

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Lila Loweree a publié un hommage .

Grandma Sue in Santa Fe!

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Annie a publié un hommage .

Sue's brownie troupe!! Thanks Marcia for sending the photo. So great that you were all able to reconnect and make more amazing memories together.

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Marcia a publié un commentaire .

And the Brownie troop became "The Girl's of '56"!

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Marcia Secord a publié un hommage .

My friend for over 75 years!- What a life you lived after Brownies and Girl Scout days in Sioux City, Iowa.We missed you when you moved away in Junior High, but reconnection at the Central 40th reunion was instant and happy. Such good times! Trips for 20 years with The Girls of '56 from Maryland to Florida to New Mexico to Canada,Minnesota and of course, IOWA. Our terrific drive together from Albuquerque to Wyoming in the Miata and our great two days together in Washington DC at Halloween. (wearing devil's horns around the city, how appropriate!) Extra special the days we spent together after you moved to Durango.
You have inspired me, made me think and made me laugh (a lot!). As with everyone you ever knew, you kindled JOY. You quietly proved "it takes courage to grow up and become who you really are".
I miss you, dear friend. With Love, Marcia

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Marilyn Garst a publié un hommage .

I was shocked and so sad to hear about Sue's sudden passing. As the Classical pianist for the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Durango, I had many conversations with Sue about music and was deeply touched by many perceptive and heart-felt comments she made about my piano playing. I knew she had a rich creative life but learned so much more than I knew by reading the detailed obituary. I, along with so many others, will certainly miss this very special and lovely person.

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Martha Merz a publié un hommage .

Sue walked in so many worlds. I've kept all of our correspondence.
On June 14, 2020 at 3:25 p.m., Sue sent me an email which contained
the following dream: "There was an up coming dance. I was enjoying the company of two men - one was Judge North, in his 90's if still living. He had a sardonic wit, sometimes silly. l We felt a simpatico and had fun conversations when I worked on their property. The other choice of dance date was a buff, much younger, dream generated man who was also on my "same page". We really felt comfortable in each other's company and enjoyed spending time together. The dance never happened, but left me feeling that the dream was a demonstration of 'it's all about spirit.' Our recognition of shared star dust with another being is the most meaningful, satisfying connection. Brian Swimme calls it allurement. I moved on to wondering about the mysticism of oceans and mountains - why the infatuation, and wondered if having that glimpse of the physical "eternal" is equally as satisfying - a deeper sense of knowing HOME."
Thank you, Sue.




the following dream: "

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Bbtaylor a publié un hommage .

As an integral member of the UU Poetry Circle in Durango, Sue Loweree always brought her wit and craft to our sharings. At the time of her unexpected death she served as liaison to the Fellowship’s sponsorship of an ekphrasis, poetic commentaries on graphic arts, planned for later in the year. Her own offering to that effort was presented at her last virtual meeting, when she read her poem ‘Iris.’

Come into this place
This sacred space
Where the bee visits daily
To sip the nectar
An ant wanders through
Finds a dew drop or two

Holy water
In this quiet cathedral
Where a breeze bristles
The crested beard
Of gold carpet under
An angel winged altar

Flies buzz by un-anointed
No prayers are heard
No thanks or regrets
No candles to eclipse
Illumined spheroid walls
Sculpted by shadows between

Tissue petals
Arc in prayer
Purple velvet
Falls from the door
No robes, crowns, scepters
Or books

In this simple temple of spring

As I recall, she indicated the need for further revision of her poem – how typical – and she presented by video her original painting, subject of the poem.

BBTaylor

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Annie a publié un hommage .

Thank you Chris and Tracy for the living tribute. It will be the tallest tree in the forest. :)

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Robert Winslow a publié un commentaire .

How wonderful....

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Donna Osterby Brien a publié un commentaire .

I have a painting I did to illustrate a story Sue wrote for an event of mine. i don't have the story but you might find it when clearing up stuff. But I will see if I can post the painting. It was illustrating her dream of finding people in Colorado with whom she would be in the same spirit. They are throwing colored balls to each other symbolizing their similar interests and personality.

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Beverly Rohman a publié un hommage .

What a dear person! I met Sue in 2006 when she cared for the gardens in the courtyard of my office building on Dover Street. We talked often and shared stories and life insights. Her book is one of the favorites for my granddaughters. When I moved offices and would see her around town it was always a fun reunion. Caring thoughts and best wishes to the family. What a life!

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Julie Frederick a publié un hommage .

I was Sue's backyard neighbor for the last 16-ish years she lived in Easton. She was always friendly, thoughtful, and had funny stories to tell. I am so sorry to hear of her passing.

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Annie a publié un hommage .

Here are some great memories from Sue's brother, John.
Mary Sue Vanden Brink, The early years

The arrival
My first look at Sue was when I was five and she was brought home from the hospital. I remember looking at the crib in our two-bedroom home and wondering why the fuss over this tiny creature who slept, cried to be fed, had her diapers changed and went back to sleep again. I wondered what a girl was. And it was clear that I was no longer king, but I did not know what that meant. I also wondered where she would sleep. It was a perplexing time for a five-year-old. But what a blessing for all our lives for many years to come.

The Noony blanket
Sue became attached in her first years of life to her “noony” blanket. It was a blanket of knitted squares which were soft and warm. She would grab it before she could talk and say,” Noony, noony, noony”, hold it close to her and fall asleep. If she did not have it, she would cry for her noony until someone got it for her. The folks and I soon learned that if we wanted peace and quiet, we had better know where the noony blanket was. I wondered if that was a girl thing.

Girl Thrend
Sue had an imaginary friend whom she called girl thrend(friend). She would talk to her in her room at our new home at 111-23rd in Sioux City. Girl thrend was her constant companion and we had to include her in our family activities.
One day, Mother was going to drop us off at B-ma’s (our grandmother) while she went to a meeting. She was running late and jumped out of the car, opened the door and we were to follow her to B-ma’s house. Sue followed and Mother slammed the door shut. Sue screamed. Mother had to run back to the car to see what was wrong. Sue said, “Girl thrend is still in the car!” Mother had to open the car door to let girl thrend out and Sue was simply fine.

Victory Garden
During World War II, the patriotic thing to do was to grow a victory garden. Our Uncle Eddie Aunt Tillie’s husband had a great one and we had produce all summer long plus food for canning which was what everybody did. We had a strip about 2’ by 30’ by our garage which rarely grew anything, but Mother said we should plant a victory garden. She got some seed packets for us to study. Sue had learned to read and could comprehend. She studied the seed packet for a long time and finally said, “oh,oh. We gotta have soil.”

I’ll do it on my own.
Sue had a strong idea of what to do and how at an early age. She was strong willed and Dutch stubborn. When we would try to help her, her response was, “I’ll do it on my own”. The folks cultivated this response recognizing it as the first indication of personal creativity which she continued to develop through out her life. She was truly creative and good at it.

The Brownie Troop
Mother was a Brownie Troop leader, a group which has stayed in touch over the years. It was a favorite group of girls whom Sue loved. One event was the decision to have a circus. The circus was dying out but we had one in Sioux City which was probably the last one we saw.

This inspired Sue and she wanted to have a circus in our neighborhood. There was a vacant lot across the street and we commandeered it for the circus Dad got some burlap bags to set up a perimeter so no one could see unless they paid. Sue organized the Brownie troop to provide the entertainment and handle the crowd. Then Sue decided there had to be a march through the neighborhood . She, of course, was the leader of the troop and had a baton and they marched. I can still see her in her Brownie uniform marching down 23rd Street. It was her first production.

A loving sister
Sue always loved her big brother and I always loved her. We had great fun remembering family stories and events. She has been a great blessing to our whole family and we will miss her very much. I marveled at her initiative energy and commitment to make a better experience for all she toughed. She was always there for me and I for her through some pretty tough times. How wonderful we had all those years together full of love and fun. Wherever she is, she is enjoying her next adventure.

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Wesley Vandenbrink a publié un hommage .

My family and I were so surprised and sad to hear of Aunt Sue's passing. She was a huge influence on my life, and we have such great memories of Sue. Some of the memories include spending time with Sue and her family (Uncle Don, Andy, and Annie) in Easton at their huge Victorian house. My brothers and I would spend a week or so each summer at the house where we would sail, swim, and catch crabs off the dock in their backyard. We would also spend a day at Ocean City where we would have fun on the beach and at the amusement park. After I started my own family with my beautiful wife Marina, Sue would join us in Michigan at a beach house we would rent with my brother Dan's family and my parents. There are so many other memories and instances where Sue touched my life in ways she probably didn't realize. Marina and I are so glad that we spent time with her and my parents in Florida this year. It was a joy being around Sue, and she will be greatly missed by the Michigan VandenBrinks. Rest in Peace Aunt Sue, and thanks for being a part of my life.

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Mike Hemming a publié un hommage .

Today Im very sad, when I saw Sue's obit today it was like being hit with an emotional brick. I knew her as a Landscaper artist, writer and friend. Always interesting always fun, her showing at the nursery with that big old station wagon full of her tools to pick up plants, We always had time for some conversation about something interesting besides plants. Photography writing or art. She had said something once that struck me funny and I called her affectionately "Crazy Lady". I was always happy to see her, and missed her after she moved west. All I can say now is, Sue you were a "Great Lady" and I'll miss you. Rest in Peace.

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Helen Chappell a publié un hommage .

If it weren't for Sue, the Avalon Theatre in Easton would be a building full of offices.

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Helen Chappell a publié un hommage .

If it weren't for Sue, the Avalon Theatre in Easton would be a building full of offices.

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Lisa Govreau a publié un hommage .

I am so saddened and shocked to hear of Sue's passing. I knew her from singing in the UUFD choir. She had a wicked fun and naughty sense of humor, which is how we connected! I loved seeing her twinkling beautiful eyes and her glowing smile. I had no idea of her amazing, extensive background. It doesn't surprise me that she was a model and singer and painter. What a lovely, talented lady. RIP Sue, you will be missed!

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Nancy Tobara a publié un hommage .

Sue left Sioux City while we were in the 7th grade. She attended our 40th high school reunion and after that met the group we called "Girls of 56" for many small reunions we had-7 or 8 of us . She was a talented and wonderful lady with lots of grit thrown in . Keep entertaining everyone ,Sue,on this final journey of your life.

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Kathy Baker a publié un hommage .

Sue was our next door neighbor for about sixteen years on Hollyday Street in Easton. We thought the world of her. Such a wonderful, caring person. Before she left Easton, she dug some of her beautiful white and purple iris and gave to me. Now every spring when they bloom, we reminisce and remember that special lady fondly. Even though we missed her a lot, we were so glad she got to spend time with her family. We were saddened to hear of her loss but are so thankful that our paths crossed and we have wonderful memories of her to cherish.

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Annie a publié un hommage .

Here's another ... what fun times she had!!
Race around the world 25th anniversary
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=biB9rqYKFLc

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Annie a publié un hommage .

OK Mom, I know it was you. A baby sparrow spent about 20 minutes learning to fly, around us in circles. Beautiful!
https://soundcloud.com/raven-narratives/sue-loweree-the-sparrow

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Elizabeth Long a publié un hommage .

I met, really met Sue at the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship in Durango during a watercolor class. Her work was beautiful and as we spent time together I realized what a beautiful person she was in every way. She brought light and warmth and gladness to everyone she encountered. I only wish I’d had more years to get to know her. What a life and what a wonderful lady.

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Jean Rhian a publié un hommage .

Truly a beautiful soul lost to this world.

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Judy Hedges a publié un hommage .

Sue...the bay, the bee, the bluebell...how much deeper must I dig to keep the continuum here... appreciating them for you -- since your gaze has gone beyond?
It's amazing that you were a 'walk on' in the very same eastern shore 'theatre' for a while. How well you did the role of bright being-- illuminating for fellow players. We, your cast mates, shall carry on the torch of resistance. And, should our species somehow survive, your thank-you-note-writing jersey shall --still- be retired and honored.
This poem I think you know (it was through poetry, prose, and posies we found each other). There is the leaving line: "Earth is not our home/ We are only passing through" (Perhaps on the way to being Mary Oliver's hummingbird?)
For kindred spirit joy, for your knowing and nurturing my soul... with more endurance than loss, will be my everlasting gratitude and a spiritual sense of the whir of your sparkling wings... Lovingly, Judy

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Martha Merz a publié un hommage .

Sue was a beloved friend for twenty years in Easton, Md., and then
when I moved to Harrisonburg, Va. I visited her in Durango. We shared our writing, poetry, gardening, confidences, and much laughter. Her
gifts were prodigious and enriching to all her knew her. She was able to understand human vulnerability and encouraged 'gifts of being' in all persons. She spoke often of synchronicity. I will always love her.

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Julie Dreyfuss a publié un hommage .

Dear Sue,
I feel so blessed to have known you. Not many moms can hang with their adult children and their friends and fit in so easily. We will miss you, your bright smile, your easy laugh, and the twinkle in your eye. I hope I am as cool as you when I grow up. Love Julie

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Sue Eberhart a publié un hommage .

I got to know Sue about 2 years ago when we were both in the UU
Sage group. It seems we shared a mutual experience and I loved talking to her. Her wisdom and grace were very evident, and I learned a lot. After reading her obituary by her daughter Annie, I can see there was much I didn't know about her. Her talents were many and wonderful and I will miss her very much. Lastly, we have a daughter, Annie, too.

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Debbie & Dave Jolly a publié un hommage .

We had very enjoyable visits with Sue after meeting her about 8 months ago. We met her knocking on her door in our spiritual activity. We immediately sensed that she had depth and an interest in spiritual things. On May 13 she read us her poem “Iris”-Looking inside the bloom. We knew she loved God’s creations. Our hearts go out to all who are touched by this great loss. Here is a Link to material that has helped us to deal with the loss of loved ones.
https://www.jw.org/finder?srcid=jwlshare&wtlocale=E&prefer=lang&docid=1101994008

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Julia Marie Gillett a publié un hommage .

I met Sue at the Unitarian Universalist fellowship in Durango about two years ago. I immediately recognized her as someone I really wanted to get to know. When ever we would get together, whether at UU or over lunch, each conversation with Sue was more interesting and stimulating than the one before. She truly was (and still is) a radiant being of light. I'm so glad I had the opportunity to know her, even if just for a short while.

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Kathleen Devine a publié un hommage .

Because we are relative newcomers to Durango and to the UUFD fellowship, I did not have the opportunity to get to know Sue as well as I would have liked. However, I always enjoyed chatting with her before and after our Sunday services, and was always delighted by her magic smile....She definitely lit up the room! Sue will be missed and warmly remembered by many.

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Jeffery Decelles a publié un hommage .

As many have noted, I will attest: Sue was a luminous being of extraordinary presence. (I'm bettin' she still is) As a shy sort of guy, I often stand off to the side of things, but Sue could see me, and made it clear that she liked what she saw. I sob as I write this...for, what a gift, so be truly seen and appreciated by someone so obviously admirable.

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Robert Winslow a publié un hommage .

Sue was an active member of the Sage Circle at the UUFD. We always enjoyed her creative contributions and wonderful energy. Her smile, her energy and her presence will be greatly missed.

Sue wrote a brief bio for the group's archive, but it was not in as much detail as the one that Annie has written...She shared a number of her poems with the group and I am hoping that one of her poems which was related to death and dying can be located and shared with family and friends.....
Sue once reminisced about her experiences with Sidney Dixon and the race from London to Sydney.....Apparently, he asked her is she would like to do more racing together, but she turned him down because she said that she wanted to be the pilot for her own life....not someone else's co-pilot...

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Frank Loweree a publié un hommage .

What an amazing website, Annie. My sister-in-law, Sue, was a very lucky woman to have you as a daughter, and I know she knew it. And Sue was a truly amazing sister-in-law and friend. For several years back in the late '80's, we made voice tape letters back and forth with each other, and I got to know her very well. She was so intelligent and beautiful. What a loss to the world that she's gone, and what a gift to heaven that she's there. :)

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Julie Pifer a publié un commentaire .

What a beautiful story about your mom’s life, Annie. She lived a great one.

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Bonnie Miller a publié un commentaire .

When I met Sue at UUFD a few years ago I thought what an interesting and kind person but clearly that was just the tip of the iceberg. I enjoyed getting to know her through singing, painting and writing activities. I will miss her warm, loving and encouraging presence. She was a beautiful being.

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Bonnie Chartier Dammann a publié un hommage .

What a beautiful story. She and I are cousins and grew up together in Sioux City until they moved away. We have gotten together several times and kept in contact over the years. She led an amazing life and I will miss her very much. My condolences to you all.

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Laurie Meininger a publié un hommage .

I had the great fortune to meet Sue when she moved to Durango and she and my Mom, JoAnne, who made her own transition on December 25, 2018, became neighbors and dear friends. Sue was indeed a bright light in the world and was such a kind, generous, intelligent and beautiful woman. I loved having her to my home and will never forget the February when we all had colored tinsel added to our hair! Sue will be missed - I am a better person for having known her and experiencing her loving joie de vivre! May peace be with all of her family and those who loved her as dearly as she loved you.

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Annie Williams a publié un hommage .

Sue had a stroke on Friday, the 19th. It wasn't conducive to have surgery, so she was moved to the Durango Hospice House to await her journey. She was treated like a queen. Felt no pain. She went in and out of consciousness for a few days, so we were able to tell her we loved her and she muffled that she loves us too. Taylor even picked some roses from the rose garden outside her door, and she smelled them. She had a very gracefully passing on Tuesday June 24 at 3:10. She's free now.

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Lynn Henderson a publié un commentaire .

Sue was remarkably talented and creative I missed her when she moved away from Maryland. It is good to hear that she continued her exciting life out West and that she was with family. I loved her Sailing Down the Chesapeake

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Niki Patton a publié un commentaire .

What an amazing woman Sue was.. Me and my ex -- their old friend Charlie Close -- visited and sang our way through the '80's at the Loweree musical household on the Eastern Maryland shore (me being a newly arrived voice and guitar). She always amazed...didn't matter what she was doing. Home. Music. Art. Conversation. A magic touch and a great smile that made you feel 'right at home'. Then when we both became 'solo's' ...Sue and I started a different friendship...of ideas She was a kindred spirit and we'd have phone conversations about philosophy, art, spirit and whatever other interesting ideas sparked interest -- and there were a lot., Yet another facet to this remarkable woman. Damn, I'm gonna miss her. Travel well Sue. And Annie -- thank you so much for setting this up.

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Len Janssen a publié un hommage .

Sue was one of the most "alive" person I've ever met. I first met her as part of the UU of Easton congregation and was quickly attracted to her kind and exuberant spirit. I also benefited from her experience and wisdom as part of a writers group in Easton where I benefited greatly from her insightful edits and the way she saw different dimensions of my characters and helped me develop them.

When I look back on my life, there are a handful of people, that by their very nature, the uniqueness of their spirit, nudged me to be a better version of myself....for me, Sue was one of those people & I'm very grateful for the time our lives intersected.

But I think the greatest gift she gave me was demonstrating that the only limit in my life was the one in my head. Her entire attitude was always "Why not?" as opposed to finding reasons not to try something. I will always remember her smile, her giggle and exuberance for life.

The ways she change me by being who she was are still part of me (as they are part of everyone she touched) and therefor, part of her is still with me. I celebrate that part of me at the same time as I mourn her passing. I'm so happy she went peacefully surrounded by people that loved her.

We were all gifted by her presence.

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Andi Nelson a publié un hommage .

Forty-one years ago, when my daughter, Bre was born - Sue Loweree was there at the hospital. She became Bre's instant godmother that day. Sue has been in our lives - on and off - for something like 45 years. When you think of someone 'lighting up a room' Sue fit that description big time. And the memories...the Great Nash Rambler Race; being in Lil Abner with her starring as Mammy Yokum - going together in the 90's to see Titanic the first time....visiting Sue en familia in Durango. My semi-monthly chat with Sue since she moved to Colorado; I could tell her stuff I couldn't tell anyone else.. Seeing her and Don together; such good buddies.. Some time in the next few days I'm gonna gather the best photos we have to add to all this...oh man - will she be missed....

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Celebration of Sue

11 juillet, 2021 à 4:00am
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Durango,
Détails de l'évènement et RSVP

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