On November 23, 2022, Susanne Cox passed away at age 76 following a battle with an undefined neurological condition. Born in Bend Oregon to James and Rosemary Arbow she witnessed the transformation of Bend from a small mill town to the city it is today. From working behind the counter of the Cashman family's clothing store to participating on the court of the "Mirror Pond Water Pageant" she was part of small-town Bend life. Sue graduated from Bend High in 1964, and attended Central Oregon Community College. It is there that she met Jerry A. Cox. They were married on September 6, 1966. At that time, she was a secretary at the local radio station, KBND. Moving to Prineville in 1968, Sue worked as a secretary in a local wood mill, while assisting her husband with his insurance agency. In 1976, Susie moved to Eugene where she was employed by the State of Oregon in various accounting positions at the University of Oregon, Oregon Health Sciences and Oregon Children Services. Retiring from the University in 2002 she immediately pursued another career as a seasonal tax adviser. Pursuing this endeavor prompted Susie to become an IRS registered agent, training she was to use the rest of her life.

In her younger years, the "lake" and water skiing were her passion. Susie and Jerry always had a ski boat whether it was at Prineville reservoir, lake Shasta or Dexter. Many learned to water ski with Sue's instruction. 

Music and musicians were always central in Sue's life, and she patronized many local jazz venues. Susie planned, funded and promoted multiple musical events for Food for Lane County and the Musicians Emergency Medical Assistance fund. For many years the focus of her summers was the Fourth of July, a celebration of music, friends and food held at her lakeside home in Lowell.  

This coming July Fourth weekend will include another celebration, all are welcome, at the Lowell Grange (51 E 2nd St, Lowell, OR 97452) at 12pm Saturday July 1, 2023 to honor the life of Sue. In lieu of flowers her family asks that a donation be made to Food for Lane County.

For every dollar donated, FOOD for Lane County can access and distribute two meals.

FOOD for Lane County is an equal opportunity provider.