Susan Janice Parise's Obituary
Susan Janice Parise, surrounded by her siblings, was called to be with the Lord on March 19, 2023. Susan was born on October 24, 1954 in Columbus, KS, the daughter of John and Jean Parise. She attended St. Rose Catholic School and graduated from Columbus Unified High School in 1972. Upon graduation from high school, at age 17,
Susan was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumor. Doctors predicted she would not survive more than a few months. However, with excellent care at KU and against the odds, Susan went on to attend Pittsburg State University, earning a BS in Social Work in 1976 and a MS in Community Agency Counseling in 1985. Susan worked in the area of social services her entire career and was dedicated to serving and improving the lives of others.
Unfortunately, the treatment that saved her life in her teenage years began causing multiple health problems in her later years. In spite of the many challenges she faced, Susan was a fighter and never gave up. She was preceded in death by her parents and her niece, Kristi Parise Golding. She is survived by her sisters Sharon (Ted) Heidemann, Janet Nelson, Marcia (Brian) Smith, brother Ralph (Jerri) Parise and nine nieces and nephews whom she loved dearly.
Susan’s celebration of life will be held on Saturday, March 25 at St. Rose Catholic Church in Columbus. There will be a rosary at 9 AM, followed by visitation, and a funeral Mass at 10 AM.
In lieu of flowers, Susan requested that memorial donations be made to the American Cancer Society.
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