It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Susan Anne Martha Tennier (Hughes) at the TBRHSC on December 27th, 2023 at the age of 79. Susan was a beloved wife, mother, sister, grandmother and aunt. Her life was filled with close, life-long relationships and a loving family. Susan was intelligent, generous, and loving. Her hope and determination served as an inspiration to her friends and family.
Susan was born on June 3, 1944 in Port Arthur to parents Edgar Morrison (Sam) and Marie Jeanne (Faubert) Hughes. She had a younger sister named Marie. Susan excelled in school graduating from Lakeview High school in 1963. During her university years, Susan worked as head lifeguard at the Current River Pool in the summer. She completed a BA degree at Queen’s University 1966.
Susan returned to Thunder Bay to teach Science and Math at her alma mater, Lakeview High School. In 1973, Susan married the love of her life, Bill Tennier. Susan was mother to 2 children; Jean-Paul, born in 1974 and Marc, born in 1976. Taking a break from teaching, Susan enjoyed raising her children and volunteering. When her children were older, Susan returned to teaching starting at Confederation College before returning to teach High School Math at Selkirk, St. Pat’s and St. Ignatius High Schools. She retired in 1999.
Susan was an avid volunteer throughout her life and sat on many community boards, including the Auxiliary to St. Joseph’s Care Group serving as President and was a life member, Board of Directors for St. Joseph’s Care Group, St. Andrew’s Church Parish Council and the West Loon Lake Campers Association. She was a member of the C.W.L. for 58 years. In 2013, Susan was awarded the Spirit Award by the City of Thunder Bay. She was a life member of the Hospital Auxiliaries Association of Ontario. Much of her community involvement was aimed at supporting Health Care needs in the community.
In retirement, Susan was blessed with four beautiful grandchildren, Sariah, David, Logan and Luke. She treasured her grandchildren, spending as much time as possible with them. She cherished every opportunity to care for them and enjoy time with them. Every summer was spent relaxing with her family at their camp at Loon Lake. She enjoyed many recreational activities including gardening, knitting, swimming, and tennis. During the winter months, Susan loved curling, volunteering and playing Bridge.
In the last two years, Susan faced a battle with cancer. Having hope and fierce determination, Susan fought the illness with the help of her family and friends. The family would like to thank the Cancer Clinic nurses and her doctors; Dr. Aseyev, Dr. Simpson, Dr. Ward and Dr. Anthes and the nurses of St. Elizabeth Health for their care and compassion.
Susan is lovingly remembered by her sons Jean-Paul, Marc (Rebecca); grandchildren Sariah, David, Logan, Luke; sister Marie Hughes (Gregory Walsh); her “little brother” Thomas Cheesman, nieces and nephews; Carol Kanary, Sharon Peters, Brenda Moorehead, George Gagnon, Patricia Pyhtila, Gregory Otto, Robert Otto, Maureen Daley, Jeffrey Otto. Susan was predeceased by: her parents; Sam and Jeanne Hughes, her husband Bill Tennier and niece Michelle Peterson.
A Funeral Mass will take place at St. Margaret’s Church on Tuesday, January 9th at 11:00 am with Rev. Ciaran Donnelly as celebrant. Interment will take place at St. Andrew’s Cemetery on that day. A visitation will be held at St. Margaret’s Church on Monday, January 8th from 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm with the Vigil Service beginning at 8:00 pm.
A Student Award has been established in Bill’s and Susan’s name for the Thunder Bay Catholic Awards Trust Committee. Those wishing to donate to the award may do so by going to the link: https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/awards-trust-fund-of-the-thunder-bay-catholic-district-schoo/ or filling-out the donation card or contacting the Catholic School Board.
Arrangements are entrusted to Sargent & Son Funeral Home. Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.sargentandson.com.
