Susan was born December 12, 1945 in Los Angeles, California.  She was adopted by Earl and Helyn Sims and spent her early childhood years in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho.  Earl and Helyn also had a son “Corky” who was a year younger than Susan.  The family moved to Pendleton, OR when Susan was still in grade school.  She finished her schooling there, graduating from Pendleton High in 1964.

Susan had two short marriages that ended in divorce (to Hal Ott in 1967 and Craig Joplin in 1977). But she never gave up on Craig, and they were reunited and remarried in 2004.  Following Craig’s death, Susan enjoyed the last 7 years of her life with companion Tom Hamann.

Susan worked for Esco, Tektronix and Metheus in their technical writing departments and then was a private caregiver until retirement.  During many of those years she was a member and sponsor working with others in recovery programs.

Susan was athletic her entire life, first as a competitive swimmer and lifeguard, and later as a passionate runner.  She participated in numerous biathlons, triathlons, and marathons, finally ending up as a daily visitor to the gym.  Susan loved her dogs and always had a beautiful flower garden.  She enjoyed keeping up with family and friends, never missing a reunion.

She is survived by a step-son Craig Joplin Jr, two nieces, Peggy and Johna, as well as many cousins. She will be greatly missed by those who knew her.  Friends and family are invited to a Celebration of Life at 1pm on Saturday February 17, 2024 at the Embassy Suites Hotel, 9355 NE Tanasbourne Dr, Hillsboro, OR 97124.