Susan passed away on the morning of September 16, 2015 in Corona del Mar, California with her husband of 44 years, Paul, by her side after a long battle with multiple sclerosis, trigeminal neuralgia and primary biliary cirrhosis. She was born on July 11,1946, in Chicago, Illinois, the daughter of Elsie and Allen G. Rydell. She was predeceased by her father; brother, Gregg A. Rydell and sister, Janet Luft Danford. Susan is survived by her husband, Paul A. Buchanan: mother, Elsie Halberg Rydell; sister Robin Rydell Einbund and nephew, Jeffrey A. Rydell.

Susan grew up in a friendly neighborhood on the south side of Chicago where she enjoyed the beach, was a very good gymnast, rode horses, went sledding and tobogganing, skating and was interested in any fun the four seasons had to offer! She also loved to sew, knit, crochet and did lovely needlepoint. She attended Morgan Park High School was on the swim and diving teams graduating in 1963. Susie was a Domestic and International Flight Attendant with American Airlines for 25 years. She married Paul, the love of her life, in 1972. They lived in Manhattan Beach, Hawaii, Lawwndale and finally, Garden Valley, the fulfillment of both of their dreams, for the last 26 years. Their property was frequented by many kinds of wildlife including Canadian geese, swans, ducks and birds including many varieties of hummingbirds, foxes and deer to name a few. She loved all animals and they were drawn to her. Susie and Paul adopted many lucky vagabond cats and dogs through the years. Upon her retirement from American, Susan became a Master Gardener. She was always very involved with all kinds of horticulture, especially orchids, and spent long happy hours in her green house with her flowers, music and animals.

Susan was a wonderful wife, daughter, sister, and friend. She was gracious, courageous, generous, accepting and known for her sunny disposition, sweet nature and optimism in spite of all she had to endure. Susan appreciated beauty, saw it all around her and expressed gratitude for what she had every day. Her big welcoming smile radiated kindness, humor, compassion and joy her entire life, even to the end. The angels have welcomed one of their own.