Susan F. Van Deree

Susan F. Van Deree, 91, passed away with her family by her side in Venice, Florida after a brief illness. She was predeceased by her husband George and daughter Paula. She is survived by six children: Kathleen, Mark, Ned, Neal, Dave and Beth; 19 grandchildren: Sarah, Julia, Ethan, Shawn, Richard, Sam, Ico, Sen, Barnaby, Jenny. Marlana, John, George, Amanda, Jake, Shara, Raphael, Eric, and Nicole; two great-grandchildren: Tanner and Sydney; daughters in-law: Yvonne Kelly, Susan and Pao; son in-law: Mike McKinnon; and many loving nieces and nephews. Susan was born to John and Julia Onufer in Passaic, New Jersey and was the youngest of eight children. She graduated nursing school at St Mary’s Hospital in Passaic as an RN in 1947. Susan married George in 1947 and settled in Pompton Plains, New Jersey. In 1970, Susan resettled with her family in Venice Florida. In addition to being a mother and home maker, she worked as a nurse in New Jersey and Florida. In the mid 1970s, she received certification as an LMT (licensed massage therapist) pioneering the practice in Sarasota County. Her practice included many distinguished clients. Susan enjoyed gardening, puzzles, reading, and having her family nearby. People who knew her said she was generous, fun, and kind. She loved to travel with her children and grandchildren. Susan was a devout Catholic and member of The Epiphany Church for 45 years. She was a member of the Epiphany Prayer Circle for over 35 years and a Hospice volunteer. Susan was a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and a good friend to many. She will be greatly missed. Visitation will be Friday January 30th at Farley Funeral Home in Venice from 5:00 to 7:00 PM. A funeral Mass will be held at Epiphany Cathedral in Venice 10:00 AM Saturday, January 31st. Susan's ashes will be interned per her wishes at a later date at the Epiphany Memorial Garden, which will occur April 11, 2015. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: Tidewell Hospice, and Covenant House. Visitation Information Date: Friday, January 30, 2015 Time: 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm Farley Funeral Home - Venice Chapel Address: 265 Nokomis Avenue South Venice, FL 34285 941-488-2291 | Map Susan’s family will be receiving friends at the funeral home. Service Information Date: Saturday, January 31, 2015 Time: 10:00 am Memorial Mass