Cover photo for Susan Shelby Brennecke's Obituary
Susan

Susan Shelby Brennecke

d. March 7, 2020

Susan Shelby Brennecke was born in East Grand Rapids, Michigan to Starke Shelby Sr. and Edwina Halliday Shelby, who both preceded her in death. Since 1975, she was the wife and best friend of Robert Allan Brennecke. Her best gift to this world is her daughter, Mary Brennecke Miller, who lives with her husband, Jason, and two children, Dashel and Abigail, in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Susan is survived by her brother, Starke Shelby Jr., who lives with his wife, Jane Leonard, and son, Evan, in Seattle, Washington. She is also survived by several cousins, and many, many friends.

Susan was a graduate of the University of Houston with a BS degree in Fitness and Human Performance. She obtained an American College of Sports Medicine certification, and had a successful career as a fitness specialist and personal trainer in Houston, Texas. She loved animals, especially her many dogs, and the horse she owned and rode as young girl. Since 2016, she was a volunteer puppy raiser, chapter officer, and passionate fund-raiser for Canine Companions for Independence. Susan’s kindness, thoughtfulness, creativity, enthusiasm, and special smile were an influence on many. Her favorite Bible verse is Galatians 5:22-23, “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Against such things there is no law.”

A Memorial Service will be held Wednesday, September 16, 2020, 3:00 p.m. at FRENCH - Westside.

Those wishing to honor her life can make a donation in her name to Canine Companions for Independence at CCI.org.

In 2019, Susan renewed her wedding vows with Bob. The following quote from Bob Marley was read during the ceremony and had a special meaning for both:

“Only once in your life, I truly believe, you find someone who can completely turn your world around. You tell them things that you’ve never shared with another soul and they absorb everything you say and actually want to hear more. You share hopes for the future, dreams that will never come true, goals that were never achieved and the many disappointments life has thrown at you. When something wonderful happens, you can’t wait to tell them about it, knowing they will share in your excitement. They are not embarrassed to cry with you when you are hurting or laugh with you when you make a fool of yourself. Never do they hurt your feelings or make you feel like you are not good enough, but rather they build you up and show you the things about yourself that make you special and even beautiful. There is never any pressure, jealousy or competition but only a quiet calmness when they are around. You can be yourself and not worry about what they will think of you because they love you for who you are. The things that seem insignificant to most people such as a note, song or walk become invaluable treasures kept safe in your heart to cherish forever. Memories of your childhood come back and are so clear and vivid it’s like being young again. Colours seem brighter and more brilliant. Laughter seems part of daily life where before it was infrequent or didn’t exist at all. A phone call or two during the day helps to get you through a long day’s work and always brings a smile to your face. In their presence, there’s no need for continuous conversation, but you find you’re quite content in just having them nearby. Things that never interested you before become fascinating because you know they are important to this person who is so special to you. You think of this person on every occasion and in everything you do. Simple things bring them to mind like a pale blue sky, gentle wind or even a storm cloud on the horizon. You open your heart knowing that there’s a chance it may be broken one day and in opening your heart, you experience a love and joy that you never dreamed possible. You find that being vulnerable is the only way to allow your heart to feel true pleasure that’s so real it scares you. You find strength in knowing you have a true friend and possibly a soul mate who will remain loyal to the end. Life seems completely different, exciting and worthwhile. Your only hope and security is in knowing that they are a part of your life.”

To send flowers to the family in memory of Susan Shelby Brennecke, please visit our flower store.

Service Schedule

Past Services

Memorial Service

Wednesday, September 16, 2020

Starts at 3:00 pm (Mountain time)

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