Obituary of Suzanne Blain
Suzanne Mary Rose Blain (nee Wanat)
April 26, 1957 – July 18, 2023
Suzanne died peacefully in her sleep, at home as she had requested. She was surrounded by love and caring to the end. While she may no longer be here, our family home will remain filled with her presence.
Suzanne was born in Bonnyville, Alberta to John and Ellla (Collins) Wanat. She was the 1st of 7 children and being first born had the additional duties of helping to keep the childhood home operating. Life was rambunctious and filled with creating memories of family adventures visiting cousins on nearby farms and traveling to the Okanagon during summers with the extended family. At the age of 18, Suzanne moved to Edmonton to begin her life as an adult. She made many friends and did many types of work, including working at Computerland early in the computer age.
In spring 1981, Suzanne met Paul by chance as they lived in the same apartment building. After an enthusiastic pursuit by the latter she was won over and they married May 19, 1984. Daughter Danielle followed in 1986, born in Edmonton. Following a move to Prince Albert, daughters Renee and Natalie were born in 1988 and 1990.
Suzanne knew about 5 local family members upon moving to Prince Albert in 1987. Through her interactions with playgroups, school activities and volunteering, her list of friends expanded quickly. She returned to the work force at the Victoria Hospital Foundation where she worked for 22 years. She took extreme pride in the work of that office, recognized how important it was and worked tirelessly to see that the office functioned well and that events went smoothly. She retired from there in 2019 well known, respected, and appreciated by all who had an opportunity to work and interact with her. She could rarely walk the streets of P.A. without saying hello to someone she knew.
Suzanne’s encounter with cancer is one she addressed with strength and dignity. She inspired the rest of us to do the same and made our lives as happy as they could be right to the end. She was a strong lady and stayed strong for us. Her humour remained to the end.
Suzanne is survived by her husband of 39 years, Paul. She also leaves to mourn, daughter Danielle, and Danielle’s sons, Eric and Logan. Those 2 young men brought so much joy into Suzanne’s life as their Memere. Mickey Mouse pancakes in abundance, sleep overs, game playing. So fortunate that she had so much time with them. Also left to mourn are Renee (Cory Gareau) and Natalie (Ethan Bertholet.) Our daughters were a constant source of pride to Suzanne, and she raised them to be the fine young ladies they are today. Suzanne is also survived by her siblings, Louis (Christine), Edward (Kim), Bernard (Theresa), Lynn (Roland), Elaine (Clancy), Jacqueline. Also left to mourn are Suzanne’s mother-in-law Marie Blain; sisters-in-law, Estelle (Richard), Joanne (Robin), Lorraine (Lloyd), Ginette (Wayne); and brother-in-law Robert (Bonnie.) As she was from a family of 7 marrying into a family of 6 there are too many nieces and nephews, grand nieces, and nephews to list. She cared for them all and was loved by them all. A note of thanks to all the family and friends who supported Suzanne and the family throughout. The many acts of kindness and support are too numerous to mention, as are the names. We are eternally grateful.
Suzanne was predeceased by her parents, John and Ella Wanat; father-in-law, Georges Blain; and her son-in-law, Alfred Nagy. Grandparents, a nephew, cousins and friends have gone before her, and we are certain she has received a warm welcome in their embrace. She loved and was loved.
A note of thanks also to the many healthcare professionals who assisted Suzanne. Saskatoon Cancer Clinic staff, Victoria Hospital staff, homecare staff were always all consummate professionals, treating her with care and compassion and helping family along as well.
Suzanne was a beautiful person inside and out, however she was foremost a modest and humble person at heart. In keeping with her wishes a Private Graveside Service will be held at a later date. She also requested that in lieu of flowers, anyone so inclined might consider a donation to the Victoria Hospital Foundation in her memory.
Family and friends wishing to send online condolences are welcome to visit beaulacfuneralhome.com Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Beau “Lac” Funeral Home and Crematorium, Lorne Adams, Funeral Director, Prince Albert, SK 306-763-3322.
