Smolen

Susan Ann Smolen passed away peacefully at home on Monday, May 20, 2024, with her beloved husband, Richard, by her side after a courageous battle with ovarian cancer and a blood cancer.

Susan was born Nov. 12, 1944, in New Orleans, La., to Robert and Sally Hohnhorst, nee Hellwig. Susan grew up in Dorset, Ohio, and after graduating from Jefferson Area High School in 1962, she enrolled in Otterbein University. Graduating in 1966 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in elementary education, Susan went on to teach elementary school while Richard finished veterinary school at The Ohio State University.

Susan and Richard relocated to Louisville, Ky., in 1969 for Richard to begin his career as a veterinarian. On Feb. 8, 1970, Susan and Richard welcomed their first son, Jeffrey, and Steven followed on Nov. 12, 1971. Susan was a loving and devoted mother who spent countless hours playing with the boys when they were little, volunteering at the school, driving them to sporting events and watching Jeff march in the band.

1972 saw a move to Pittsburgh, for Richard to continue practicing veterinary medicine and after a year to open Duncan Manor Animal Hospital. Susan returned to work in 1986 as the office manager for the hospital until retirement in December 2009. Her hard work, dedication and leadership helped Duncan Manor Animal Hospital became one of the premier veterinary hospitals in the greater Pittsburgh area.

Throughout her life, Susan volunteered and was involved with multiple organizations. She was an active member of the Veterinary Office Managers Association, Gourmet Club, the North Allegheny Band Boosters Group, and Theta Nu Sorority.

Susan was a member of the Perry Highland Women’s Association for many years. She served on numerous committees, chaired countless projects, and was the president from 1976 to 1977. She loved promoting civic, educational, philanthropic and social activities.

Upon retirement, Susan and Richard spent the winters in Green Valley, Ariz., where she enjoyed designing and crafting jewelry at the lapidary and playing tennis and pickleball. They also were avid travelers and ventured through five continents.

Susan will be dearly missed by her husband of 56 years, Richard; and her children, Jeffrey (Kristen) and Dr. Steven Smolen. She was proud to be called grandma, and will also be missed by her three grandchildren, Cameron, Evan and Mikayla; as well as her two siblings, Karen Strand and William (Skip) Hohnhorst.

SMOLEN — Family and friends of Susan Ann Smolen, who died Monday, May 20, 2024, are welcome from 10 to 10:50 a.m. Saturday at DEVLIN FUNERAL HOME OF CRANBERRY TOWNSHIP, 2678 Rochester Road, Cranberry Township. A celebration of life will be held at 11 a.m. at the funeral home, officiated by Pastor Cyndi Bloise.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to be made to the American Cancer Society (donate.cancer.org) or Otterbein University (givecampus.com/campaigns/10431/donations/new) on Susan’s behalf.

Online condolences can be given at www.devlinfuneralhome.com.

Please sign the guest book at www.butlereagle.com.