
Susan was born January 3rd, 1968, in North Vancouver, BC to parents Darinka and Paul Gavez of Croatia. She passed away November 28, 2024, peacefully with family beside her. She left behind her parents, lots of uncles and aunts, cousins and second cousins in Croatia, Slovenia, Sweden and Germany. In Vancouver, aunt Stephani and her husband Norman, cousin Daniel and Alicia and her favorite second cousins Elijana and Mila. Her Godparents, Govorcin family and family Nenadic. She also left behind her husband Bradley and his parents Brian and Carol and birthmother Sherrie in Portland Oregon, as well as his family in California and Ohio. Her working years were in ministry finance in Victoria BC, and ministry family and children development, and in the Provincial court in Vancouver BC. Susan also worked casually at MacMillian Bloedel during her studying years.
A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Patrick’s Parish; 22561 121 Ave, Maple Ridge on Friday December 6, 2024 at 11:00 am followed by burial at the Maple Ridge Cemetery at 1:00 pm. The family would like to invite everyone to join them at a reception afterwards at the St. Patrick’s Holy Grounds Hall.
December 6th, 2024
Dear Susan You brought so much joy to our family. The love you had for Brad shown brightly. You shared that love with all of us with your words, texts, hugs , and humor. We miss you and know we will be with you in heaven. Love. Brian and Carol Benson
December 5th, 2024
Dearest Susan,
I remember when I was a young girl going to visit you and your family in North Vancouver when we lived in Port Coquitlam and later in Maple Ridge. I considered this to be a big adventure as it was such a long drive and we had to go over a big bridge. North Vancouver was like another world, so beautiful with the mountains right there. I remember my sister and I would play games with you, having so much fun, laughing and being funny little girls. Then we would stay for dinner and it was always a big yummy feast! Years later I moved next door to you and your mom and dad as I was living at my family house. We would have lovely conversations between the properties by the fence and also when we were on our respective verandas. You were such a kind and loving human being. We also went for walks around the neighborhood where we would have engaging conversations, laugh, and sometimes cry. You were a very good listener and an extremely empathetic kind and compassionate soul. I so loved our walks and talks. You will forever be in my heart. Love and Light Susan
Dearest Paul and Darinka,
My heartfelt condolences for the loss of your beautiful daughter.
You two are the best friends and neighbors anyone can ever have in this world. I love you both
Heather xoxo
December 5th, 2024
Susan was my oldest and dearest friend. We met when we were about nine or 10.
She asked me to come over to decorate a Christmas tree and we were friends ever since. What a special tree and day that turned out to be!
We experienced so many things together in life. We experienced love and strife. She introduced me to my first boyfriend and when I found my first love, she dated his brother. From camping trips to driving around in her father’s car we nicknamed “The Boat”, she was always there. Susan was always loving, hopeful, kind and patient. When we were kids I would try to make her mad. It never worked. She would never get mad!
I really feel she was an angel on this earth that has now returned home. Susan was sensitive, an empath, humble and selfless. I felt she put others first more than herself. She was always one to cheer you on. I was so fortunate to have been able to experience Susan’s loving friendship in this lifetime. She always stated that health and the people you love are the most important. Susan‘s laughter still rings in my ears, her smile still shines brightly. You left way too soon and left a huge impact. I will miss you tremendously and honor your memory to everyone I know. Rest in peace sweet angel, you are as free as a bird now.
I would like to extend my deepest condolences to her family and loved ones.
December 5th, 2024
Susan, many years have passed since we've been together, we were just little girls. That way, our memories remained stronger. For that reason, I wrote many essays in school about you with pride. "I have a cousin in Canada, she is beautiful, and she is wearing beautiful dresses."
I am watching the pictures, which are a great memory, your warm smile on your face, your beautiful eyes say everything about you. Feelings are strong, you were always good, quiet and beautiful.
December 4th, 2024
Hello there Debbie, Sharon, Brad, Darinka, and Paul.
Darinka and Paul, I am so sorry to hear that Susan left us all too soon. The one time we had that lovely lunch at your place, she gave me the impression of being a wonderful, kind-hearted soul.
It was a pleasure to know her, even for just a short, memorable moment.
Love,
Sandra.💐
Hi Paul and Darinka, so sad to hear about your daughter Susan.
Emmanuel.🙏
December 4th, 2024
We love you Sue! You had a heart of gold! You embodied LOVE & peace! We miss you terribly! Our only solace is that you are with God now & we will see you again in Heaven. You will forever be in our hearts, dear Sue! We have been praying for God’s peace for your loving husband Brad & your parents.
All our love,
Debbie (sister-in-law) & Mitch
(and Spencer, Nolan, Blake & Lindley)
December 4th, 2024
You were the best daughter i've had, from mama bear to baby bear. Love Mom
December 4th, 2024
Susan was the best wife i could ever hope for. She was so kind and loving and full of compassion for others around her. She will be greatly missed. Sue will remain inmy heart for eternity. God bless you Susan. Your loving husband.
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