Suzanne Kay Petersen

SALEM, OREGON. Suzanne K. Petersen was born on June 17, 1945, in Portland, Oregon, to Vern and Mildred McAlpin. She passed away on December 19, 2025, at her home in Salem, Oregon in the presence of her husband, Robert (Pete) Petersen, her daughter Emily and granddaughter Madalyn. She is also survived by daughter Kathleen Spring Rose and grandchildren Morgan and Colton. Her mother, father and brother Dan predeceased her.

Suzanne was a graduate of Portland State University with a Degree in Russian, and minor in art. She was an accomplished calligrapher and watercolorist until osteoarthritis robbed her of her ability to hold a pen or a brush.

Suzanne also loved her volunteer work at various elementary schools in Salem, as well as the Salem Police Department, which led to her working for the Detective Unit for several years.

At her request, there will be no memorial service. Her ashes will be scattered (with the ashes of her favorite pet, Bailey the wonder dog), in the mountains and on the beach.

In lieu of flowers, her family suggests donations be made to the Marion Polk Food Bank.