Susan Elizabeth (Penning) Alexander, age 66, of Grand Rapids, passed away unexpectedly on December 16, 2024. She was preceded in death by husband, Larry Alexander; parents, John and Betty (Bigler) Penning; sister, Nancy L. Penning; and brother Robert James Penning. Susan will be deeply missed by her daughter Rose Weaver and son-in-law David Clark of Interlochen, MI; daughter Christina Alexander of Kentwood, MI; grandchildren Justin, Shane, and Grace; sister Sharon Penning of Emeryville, CA; sister Dawn (Phil) Anderson of Grand Rapids, MI; beloved cat Cookie; and many nieces, nephews, great nieces, and great nephews.

Susan was born in Honolulu, Hawaii, where her dad was working for Pan American Airlines. Throughout her childhood, the family lived in and visited various places around the world, and she graduated from Karachi American School. With a lifelong appreciation for travel, Susan loved to share recipes, plan menus, and bring joy to others through her cooking (especially her Thai chicken curry and homemade spring rolls). Susan also loved horseback riding, motorcycles, jewelry, and talking on the phone. She has been a wonderful, involved caregiver to and entertainer of her grandchildren and they will miss their "Suzie." Always the life of the party, Suzie had a flair for telling good stories—most of which were true!

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, December 28, 2024, at 2 PM at Good News Baptist Church, 6830 Eastern Ave SE, Grand Rapids. The family will receive visitors there at 1 PM, prior to the service.