Susan Elizabeth Spanos

It is with deep sorrow that we mourn the loss of Susan Elizabeth Spanos who departed from this world on June 4, 2023, at the age of 59. Susan lived a complex life filled with both triumphs and struggles.

Born on June 22, 1963, in Burbank, California, Susan was the daughter of Hungarian immigrants determined to achieve the American dream. In her younger years she was lovingly known as Susie—always full of life and humor, sharing her exuberance with those around her. She was remarkably intelligent, often known as the smartest girl in her class. She graduated from John Burroughs High School in Burbank, CA in 1981.

Although Susan forever regretted not completing her higher education, she used her gifts in other ways. From the age of 20, she had a successful career as a loan officer.

Susan always believed anything was possible. At age 28, with no political experience, she ran for a seat on the Burbank City Council. Through her charisma and determination, Susan achieved a remarkable milestone by becoming the youngest woman ever elected at the time. While brief, her political career was a testament to her desire to make a positive impact on her community.

Susan’s family was the focal point of her life. During her marriage to her former husband Ted, Susan raised three beautiful children: David, Elizabeth, and Annalise. They were the lights of her life. She poured her heart and soul into nurturing them and her love for them knew no bounds.

Susan had a radiant smile and could make you feel like the center of the universe. Tenacious and magnetic, she relished joyful moments and celebrated her favorite things: some of which were dogs, strong coffee, roses, Disneyland honeycomb, and finding a good deal.

Despite her exceptional intellect, strong faith, and love for her family, Susan battled, like many in our society, drug addiction and mental illness much of her life. Susan's resiliency in her final years was a testament to her strength and endurance. She never lost hope and her memory will be forever treasured.

Susan was preceded in death by her father Steve Torok and her mother Barbara (Kovács) Torok. She is survived by her son, David Spanos, and his wife, T’Lane, her daughters Elizabeth and Annalise Spanos, and her former husband, Ted Spanos. She is also survived by her brother, Andy Torok, and his wife Robin, her nieces Kristin Ellsworth, Michelle Dietrich, Ashley Sell, Rachel Torok and her nephew, Andrew Torok.

Susan’s funeral is scheduled for Sunday, July 16, 2023, at 2pm at Pacific View Memorial Park and Mortuary, 3500 Pacific View Drive, Corona Del Mar, California 92625. All those who wish to pay their respects are welcome to attend.

A private memorial service will be held afterwards, allowing her family and friends to gather, remember and celebrate her life.

Flowers may be sent to Pacific View Memorial Park and Mortuary, 3500 Pacific View Drive, Corona Del Mar, California 92625.

For those unable to attend, Susan’s children welcome and encourage stories, memories, and photos from her younger years to be shared on her memorial page.