Susan “Mama Dude” McClees of Kalamazoo Michigan, formerly of Spring Lake Michigan and Burbank California, passed away Sunday afternoon, October 10, 2021 after a courageous battle with cancer. It was sunny, low 70’s, with a light breeze. It was strange for Michigan this time of year,almost as if California rolled in to bring her home.
Susan was born June 26, 1954 in Burbank, CA, the daughter of Joan and John Lerch. In addition to her parents, sister Paula, preceded her in death. She is survived by her son David (Ruth), and four grandchildren: Gabbi, Spencer, Sophia, and Jordan. Sister: Angela, Special Nieces: Rachel and Debbie.
At a young age Susan fell in love and married, soon after she became a mother to her only child, David, named after his father. Susan and her husband David were free spirited hippies who took full advantage of living in the “Golden State” by going to many rock-n-roll concerts. Together they saw Jimmy Hendrix, Janis Joplin, Led Zeppelin and Bob Marley just to name a few. Unfortunately, Susan’s marriage did not work out, but they continued to love one another, and their child devotedly.
Despite being a young mother, Susan worked tirelessly against all odds, and fully embodied the American dream. Susan worked in advertising, was a substance abuse counselor, and was the owner of a water purifying company. But by finally following her life’s passion, she found true fulfillment as the founder of a counseling/treatment program, which to date has helped thousands. Susan’s life motto was “Everyone deserves a second chance, and to be treated with respect and compassion”. Susan truly enjoyed her life’s work but claimed that her favorite job has always been - being a “grandma.”
Susan was a simple and private woman who enjoyed her family and friends thoroughly. She enjoyed movies, music, staying home, and making the world’s most perfect sandwiches. Susan had a great love for animals and would go to great lengths to ensure they were loved and cared for. Mama Dude was not above kidnapping a dog left out in the cold. Susan had a lifelong love affair with all things Disney, and referenced the Lion King when comforting her son. She was completing the “Circle of Life.” Susan had a quirky personality that made it hard not to love her. If you knew her, I mean if you really knew her – you are guaranteed to have a great story to tell.
Susan would like to let everyone know that her work here is done. She received a call, a sort of an offer you can’t refuse, for an appointment from which she will not be returning. This assignment comes with a huge sign-on bonus, a reunion with family and friends she has not seen in a long time. She left detailed instructions for her earthly family to celebrate her mission here which is now complete.
Susan had two last wishes that she wanted us to share with friends and family. The first, is that is you perform an unexpected and unsolicited act of kindness for someone in need. The second is that you listen to the words in the song “No Hard Feelings” by the Avett Brothers, as it explains how she felt as she left this earth.
https://youtu.be/tFGs7HP15d4
