Suzanne was the youngest of five children born to parents Edward L. Cordell and Ida June L. Cordell. Born five minutes after her twin sister, she was a surprise to her parents and the doctor, in the time before ultrasound. “Little B” became the Suzie we knew and loved, until the surprise of cancer overcame her life. Her partner Peter Goodman, brother Dan and his wife Roberta were with her at her passing. We are grateful for all the care she received through such a difficult time.
Suzanne’s childhood in Oxnard centered around family, church and school. She had a love of music and could sing the lyrics of nearly any song she heard more than twice. She played piano and French horn, sang in her church and school choirs. She danced! She studied with Mara Lysova’s Oxnard Ballet School and performed in many of the ballet productions. She went on to major in music and ballet in college until an accidental knee injury caused a change of career aspirations. Suzanne later completed her degree in accounting while supporting herself in various jobs and went on to a career in accounting. After retirement, she enjoyed some well-earned leisure. Travel dreams called.
Suzanne greeted us with ”Hello Handsome”, or “Hi, Beautiful”, and made each person in her life feel valued. Suzanne loved celebrating! She enjoyed movies with friends or watching fireworks with a picnic. She remembered every birthday, sending cards and gifts for those near and far. Nearly every celebration called for an abundance of chocolate, especially See’s candies. She did not enjoy camping. She did enjoy travel, and all things elegant and bright.
We all will miss that joy of connecting with Suzanne! She is survived by her brothers and sisters Tom Cordell, Alice Blatchley, Dan Cordell, Sara Cordell and their families, and her longtime love and life partner Pete Goodman.
Suzanne valued her Christian faith and supported various causes through that faith. In her honor, contributions can be made to Focus on the Family, your church or charity.
A celebration of her life will be held in Ventura, July 22nd afternoon at Four Points Sheraton’s Schooner room.
Cremation ashes will be scattered at sea.