Obituary of Sue P. Minahan

Sue P. Minahan was born in Washington, D.C., on October 4, 1940, to Daniel and Lodelle Minahan. Sue largely grew up in Garland, Texas, where she attended Garland High School. After graduating, Sue attended Texas Women’s University, receiving a B.S.N., after which she studied at the University of Washington, where she received her Master’s in Nursing.

Sue launched her career in the United States Army in 1966, retiring in October 1988. During her tenure in the military, she was stationed in Heidelberg, Germany (1977-1981), Vietnam (1969-1971), and Cambodia.  She served as Med-Surge Nurse, Community Health Nurse, and 66A Nurse Administrator. Other places of residence include San Antonio, Texas; Bellevue, Washington; Siverspring, Maryland; Olympia, Washington; Saigon and Cu Chi, Vietnam.

After her retirement from the military, Sue enjoyed teaching at the School of Nursing, Pacific Lutheran University and working in a bookstore. She loved music, traveling, and reading (especially history). She was a very eclectic reader and enjoyed sharing her knowledge. Her favorite pet was her Golden Retriever but she loved all our dogs…not so fond of our cat of 17 years.

Sue was somewhat reclusive and had a quiet sense of humor, a retiring manner until pushed too far…then very assertive and direct in taking action.

Sue and Donna Ewing became friends in Vietnam in 1969. That friendship grew and, on September 7, 2013, Sue and Donna became life partners. They lived in Olympia before moving to Dupont, Washington.

Sue passed away July 11, 2023, in Tacoma, Washington.  She is survived by her partner, Donna; and was predeceased by her parents, Daniel Sr. and Lodelle Minahan, and brother, Daniel Minahan, Jr.

As an animal lover, Sue’s wishes were that any donations be given to Best Friends Animal Society, 5001 Angel Canyon Rd., Kanab, UT 84741-5000, or any ASPCA Guardian (800-628-0028 for info), or Wolf Haven International.

A memorial service will be held October 4, 2023, 10:30a.m at Tahoma National Cemetery, 18600 240^th St., Kent, WA 98042. Reception to follow.

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