Susan Searles Braatz

Susan Searles Braatz

Age 68, formerly of Alpine, NY, passed away October 19, 2022.

Born June 24, 1954, Susan grew up on her parents’ dairy farm. Graduating from OMCS in 1972, she continued her education, earning an Associate’s Degree in Secretarial Science at Tompkins Community College. Susan married Herbert Braatz in 1984, living in a home built by her father and uncle located in Smith Valley (Alpine).

Working as a receptionist/secretary for Eastern AI and Cornell for many years, Susan also enjoyed her time as a member and working position in the local Weight Watchers organization. Many weekends were spent at Cool Lea Campground helping her sister with the various duties of running the business. Sue loved card making, canning, baking, sewing and reading. She was an excellent seamstress and the best pie baker in the family.

She was predeceased by her parents Ward and Anna Searles and a brother Gordon. Sue is survived by Herb Braatz, brother Fordyce Searles, sister Rose Ann Simpkins, close cousins Elizabeth Robbins Eshelman, Janice Shuler Oshiro, Colleen Shuler, and several nieces and great nieces.
Susan spent her last years at Bethany Village and Cayuga Ridge Nursing facility suffering from early onset dementia.

Friends may call on Wednesday, November 2, 2022 from 12:00 noon to 1:00 PM at Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, 212 E. Fourth Street, Watkins Glen, with a funeral service following at 1:00 PM; followed by burial at Hector Union Cemetery following the funeral.

Memorial contributions in Susan’s name may be made to: Mecklenburg Volunteer Fire Department, PO Box 108, Mecklenburg, NY 14863.