Suzann Adele Alsup
Suzann Adele (Ross) Alsup was born May 27, 1931 in The Dalles, Oregon to William and Frances Ross. She and her siblings, Wesley and Ethel Ross, spent their childhood in Wamic and grew up tending to the family ranch, which Suzann resided in for most of her life. She attended Maupin High School and enjoyed a year at Oregon State University before returning to Wamic to build a life with the love of her life, Jack Alsup.
Jack and Suzann were married in 1950 and shared life together for 67 years (whew!). The community greatly benefitted from Jack and Suzann’s life of service to others. They met after Jack returned from his Navy service at a Wamic dance, specifically a dance that was a polio fundraiser which Suzann attended in honor of Suzann’s sister Ethel. When asked how long it look for Jack and Suzann to get married, Jack’s sister, Audeen Wagner, remembers “it took about 5 minutes.” Their partnership was admired and respected by all who knew them. Four children, nine grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, and many memories later, Suzann and Jack’s legacy was made at their family homestead in Wamic.
Suzann was known for several admirable qualities including her, kindness, compassion, empathy, and ability to see the light and good in everyone she met. In her words, “God doesn’t make junk.” Suzann was liked by everyone and supported her friends and family through all of life’s events. She was also known for her stubbornness, toughness, and leadership in difficult times. With these qualities she was able to succeed in many positions throughout her life. A leader of 4H, Wasco Country Fair secretary, a census taker, farmer, and most importantly, a wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother in a family that loves her and will miss her greatly.
Some may also know Suzann by the things she leaves behind. Her amazing cookie-making skills. Wise, yet simple words. Snuggles when every grandchild (no matter what age) sat on her lap. Her unique and special ability to make everyone feel loved. Her infectious laugh. Breakfasts at grandma’s. One of a kind clam dip. Handwritten cards. The “oh don’t’ make a fuss” advice and so much more.
She is survived by her four children, Jaci, Ross (Thelma), Mary (Bob), and Melissa (Ed), her dog, Maggie, her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Suzann’s incredibly loving and thoughtful spirit will live on and enjoyed by generations to come at the family ranch.
Suzann, we love you and are so thankful for the many laughs, moments, and times spent with you in our lives. Rest in peace.