She was born to parents, James and Marianna Wilson, May 27, 1948 in Lawrence, Kansas. Susan graduated from Shawnee Mission West High School in 1966 and earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Kansas (Rock Chalk) in 1970. An enthusiastic Jayhawks fan her entire life.
Susan had a passion for helping people, and we saw that in her life’s work. Her career was spent working as an occupational therapist in pediatric rheumatology for over thirty years at the University of Kansas Medical Center. Susan also took pride in working with medical students - passing on her knowledge and experiences whenever she could. During her career, Susan received multiple state, regional and national community service awards. In 2011 the Association of Rheumatology Health Professionals (ARHP) presented Susan with the Addie Thomas Service Award. An award that recognizes members who have actively volunteered with local, regional, and national arthritis-related activities. In 2012, Susan retired so she could focus on being a full-time grandmother.
Her grandchildren were truly her everything. They lovingly referred to her as, Kuku. Kuku was their biggest fan, constant teacher, advocate (even when they did something wrong), and so much more. Susan was preceded in death by her parents, James and Marianna Wilson of Overland Park. She is survived by her son, Chris Wright of Olathe, KS - grandchildren, Lucas, Ben and Max, and daughter, Erica Brune of Leawood, KS - husband, Michael, grandchildren, Porter, Reagan and Piper.
We’re at peace knowing she left a great big mark on this world and all of us. She will be sorely missed.
A Celebration of Life Service will be on Monday, October 4, 2021 at 1:00 PM at Village Presbyterian Church, 6641 Mission Road, Prairie Village, KS 66208.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Susan’s name to the Arthritis Foundation; www.arthritis.org.
