Susan Angela Banks of Modesto, peacefully passed away at home while surrounded by family, on March 1, 2023, after a courageous battle with cancer.
Born in Modesto on October 31, 1964; daughter of Morton and Mary Banks, Susan was a loving daughter, sister, auntie, and niece who loved to dance, sing karaoke, shop, work puzzles, collect flamingos, catch bridal bouquets, and attend special celebrations. Despite her many challenges, in addition to her illness, our Susie Q was a friend to everyone she met. She enjoyed giving gifts, especially her handmade needlepoint crosses. Susie rarely forgot a birthday, anniversary, or special occasion and acknowledged each with a specially chosen greeting card. Susie joyfully participated in the Cole Vocational Program and made many friends there. She led a full life competing and traveling nationally as a distance runner with the Special Olympics for many years, rode for 10 years with the Care-ousel Therapeutic Riding Program, bowled weekly at McHenry Bowl, and later enjoyed walking for the “March for Dimes”.
Susie was preceded in death by her father, Morton Banks. She is survived by her mother Mary Banks, who took loving care of Susie throughout her entire life and was a constant companion; sisters Diana Watts (Don) and Kathy Turner (Dennis), and brother Mort Banks (Debbie). Susie was auntie to 8 nieces and nephews, 9 grand-nieces and grand-nephews.
In addition to her uncle, aunts, cousins, family members, and friends, Susie loved her second family, the doctor and nurses who cared for her at California Cancer Care Group. Tracy Escatel and Stephanie Perry were also special people in her life, always available with loving assistance. Susie brought love and joy into our lives and to those who were around her.
A celebration of life is scheduled for Saturday, June 10, 2023, at Big Valley Grace Community Church, 4040 Tully Road, Modesto, California, at 11:00 a.m.
Remembrances may be made to Special Olympics of Stanislaus County, 400 12th Street, Suite 5, Modesto, CA 95358 (stancospecialolympics.org) or Christian Beret, Inc., 2508 Oakdale Road #10, Modesto, CA 95355 (christianberets.org).
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