Susan Elizabeth Bruce

Susan Elizabeth Bruce, a beloved educator and cherished member of her community, passed away on July 2, 2024. Born on June 4, 1953, Susan's life was marked by her dedication to teaching and her warm and engaging personality.

Susan's passion for education led her to a fulfilling career as a teacher at Oak Park Elementary, Christa McAuliffe Elementary, and Elementary in Shawnee Mission, KS from 1975 to 2001. She also worked with the Kansas Department of Education, providing advanced educational courses to other teachers throughout the State. She touched the lives of countless students throughout her years of service, leaving a lasting impact on all who the privilege of knowing her.

A proud alumna of Wichita Southeast High School and Kansas State University, where she received her BA in education in 1975, Susan was an active member of the Pi Beta Phi sorority. She furthered her academic pursuits by obtaining a master’s degree in education from the University of Kansas.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Susan was known for her vibrant personality and genuine kindness. Her outgoing nature, infectious smile, and twinkling eyes endeared her to everyone she met. Susan had a love for travel and an innate ability to forge connections with others, always eager to make new friends and learn about their lives.

Among Susan's many interests were her love for Christmas, a holiday she cherished celebrating with family and friends in Prairie Village and Wichita. Thoughtful in selecting gifts and keepsakes for loved ones, she hoped these tokens would serve as reminders of significant relationships and moments shared together.

Susan found joy in being an active member of the Central Exchange in Kansas City, where she engaged with various civic organizations and supported local animal rescue efforts. Her generous spirit and commitment to serving her community were truly commendable.

Susan is preceded in death by her parents, George William Bruce and Elizabeth Cadman Bruce, as well as her brother Scott Wilson Bruce. She is survived by her brothers: George Cadman Bruce (Pam) and William Houston Bruce; sister: Carolyn Bruce Tschudy (B. Scott); sister in law, Janet M. Brown; nephews: George Michael Bruce (Ally), Austin Tschudy (Lacey), William Tschudy (Madeline), and Benjamin C. Tschudy; nieces: Elizabeth B. Foland (Scott), Elizabeth T. Alingh (Drew), Caroline B. McAndrew (Thomas), Scottie B. Shapiro (Alan), and Jamie B. Vieitez (Jose); along with 24 great nephews and nieces.

A Celebration of Life Reception will be held on July 13, 2024, at the Cozine Life Events Center in Wichita, KS. The event will begin at 3:30 PM and conclude at 5:30 PM as family, friends, colleagues, and students gather to honor Susan's memory and legacy.

In lieu of flowers, memorials have been established with American Cancer Association, 1100 Pennsylvania Ave, Kansas City, MO 64105; and Pawsitive Tails Rescue, 604 E. Harold St., Olathe KS, 66062.

In remembrance of Susan's life well-lived, let us carry forward her spirit of kindness, compassion, and unwavering dedication to others. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered with love and gratitude by all who knew her.