Susan Shanks Pineda
Forever in our hearts, always in our stories.
Obituary
Susan Shanks Fenter Pineda of Lake Stevens passed away peacefully on January 18th at Providence Hospital, surrounded by the love of her family. Born in Alliance, Nebraska on November 28th, 1939, Susan entered the world as one of eleven children in the bustling, affectionate home of Donald and Elma Shanks. From the very beginning, she learned the value of togetherness, generosity, and resilience. These were the qualities she carried throughout her life and shared freely with everyone she loved.
Susan is survived by two of her three children: Cindy Frederickson and her husband, Ernest, and Scot Fenter and his wife, Trish. Both families live in Snohomish.
Her beloved son, Rick Fenter, preceded her in death on March 20, 2023. Susan’s devotion to her children was unwavering; she championed their dreams, supported their choices, and celebrated their accomplishments with a pride that never dimmed. Her love for them was the steady center of her life.
She was blessed with seven grandchildren, Brandon, Dylan, and Cody Fenter; Karisa Reinhard and Dakoda Fenter; and Logan and Riley Frederickson, each of whom brought her immeasurable joy. She delighted in their milestones, their laughter, and the unique personalities they grew into. Susan also cherished her nine great‑grandchildren, who added a new generation of light, energy, and love to her world.
Susan is survived by five of her siblings, along with thirteen nieces and nephews who adored her. She held a special place in the hearts of her large extended family, always making time for gatherings, phone calls, and the small gestures that made people feel seen and cared for.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Donald and Elma; her brothers Donnie, Jack, and Joe; and her sisters Sharon Reddeman and Theresa Satushek.
Though many family members went before her, she carried their memories with tenderness and spoke of them often.
A proud graduate of Snohomish High School, Susan continued her education at Edmonds Community College, earning her AA degree. She built a meaningful career as an administrator with Community Transit and later with the Monroe School District.
In both roles, she was known for her kindness, her steady presence, and her ability to make people feel welcomed and supported. Her colleagues remember her as someone who brought calm, warmth, and a quiet strength to every room she entered.
Outside of work, Susan found joy in the simple, beautiful rhythms of daily life. She loved her home deeply, its comfort, its familiarity, and the sense of peace it offered. Tending to her Dahlia's in the garden with her daughter Cindy Frederickson, was one of her greatest pleasures.
She grew flowers not just for herself, but to share with others, offering bouquets as small acts of love and connection. Her generosity was woven into everything she did.
Family was the heart of Susan’s world. She treasured holidays, reunions, and spontaneous visits, always happy to host, listen, laugh, and reminisce. Her gentle spirit, her thoughtful nature, and her ability to make others feel cherished will be remembered by all who knew her.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, March 15th at 1:00 PM at Lamb of God Lutheran Church in Lake Stevens.
Together, we will honor her memory, celebrate her gracious spirit, and reflect on the beautiful life she lived, a life marked by love, kindness, and quiet strength.
Written by Riley Frederickson
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Memory wall
Always encouraging and supportive of the people in her life, Aunt Susan was a special person.
watch the twins and Cindy from time to time and I remember what beautiful high heels she would wear.
Michael and I are so thankful for the Family Reunion we hosted in August of 2024 and all the happy memories of that special day.
RIP Dear Susan
The beautiful memories,
CELEBRATING
a gracious spirit,
REMEMBERING
a wonderful life.
THE OPTIMIST CREED
Promise yourself
"To be so strong that nothing can disturb your peace of mind.
To talk health, happiness and prosperity to every person you meet.
To make your friends feel that there is something in them.
To look at the sunny side of everything and make your optimism come true.
To think only the best, to work only for the best and to expect only the best.
To be just as enthusiastic about the success of others as you are about your own.
To forget the mistakes of the past and press on to the greater achievements of the future.
To wear a cheerful countenance at all times and give every creature you meet a smile.
To give so much time to the improvement of yourself that you have no time to criticise others.
To be too large for worry, too noble for anger, too strong for fear, and too happy to permit the presence of trouble".
By Christian D. Larson
courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.
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Service
A Celebration of Life for Susan Shanks Pineda will be held on
March 15th at 1:00pm
Lamb of God Lutheran Church
Lake Stevens, Washington
Following the service, we will share a community potluck in her honor. If you would like to contribute a dish, the potluck sign‑up link is included below.
www.potluxy.com/#/event/susan's-celebration-of-life-dvuwv2qf
Your presence, stories, and love mean so much to our family as we remember her together.
3923 103rd Ave SE, Lake Stevens, WA 98258
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