Susan Carol McGuire, age 57, of LaGrange; beloved wife of Martin McGuire; loving mother of Mark, Caitlin, & Ryan; devoted daughter of Rev. Howard O. Fabricius and Beverly Ann (Fouts) Fabricius; dear sister of Karin (Fabricius) John Comastri, Nancy (Fabricius) Frank Springman, Wendy (Fabricius) Kalan/Hohl Scott Hohl and Sarah (Fabricius) Lance Miner; aunt, cousin, & friend of many.
Susan was raised in a loving family as a ‘Pastor’s kid’. While she collected many friendships, her ‘sister-bonds’ were dearest. Susan relocated with family several times (North Dakota, Canada, Ohio) before settling in Greenwood, Indiana as a middle-school student. A strong student throughout, she earned scholarship to Concordia Lutheran – Chicago where she studied for her teaching career while playing flute in the orchestra.
In the summer before her senior year at Concordia, Susan met Marty while working a position on Cape Cod. They reconnected on Susan’s return to school and dated for 2 years before marrying and starting a family. Susan worked both private and public schools with pre-school to fifth grade. She managed that, the household, raising her children and correcting her husband all at the same time.
Susan took graduate courses in Special Education and studied and taught ABA therapy when she learned that her youngest (Ryan) was on the autism spectrum and developmentally delayed. Susan worked miracles in her efforts to improve Ryan’s potential while still tending to the needs of Mark and Caitlin and continuing to correct her husband.
Susan enjoyed seasonal decorating, traveling, baking, reading, sewing, pilates, upholstering and gardening. She had an innocence born of humility that allowed all to feel comfortable in her presence…even while correcting her husband.
Susan began showing symptoms of Huntington’s Disease (a rare genetic and neurodegenerative disease) in her early 40’s and was diagnosed in 2015. She made herself available to research trials in search of a cure for her and others. Though struggling with the deterioration of her capacities, Susan fought to provide support to others where she could. No longer able to drive and having to leave her position as a teachers aid in a nearby town, Susan would walk a mile to/from her Church/School in order to assist with pre-school education.
Finally, Susan left peacefully to be with her Lord in Heaven while comforted in the presence of her husband and children.
Visitation 4 to 9pm on Friday, December 29 at Hallowell & James Funeral Home, 1025 W. 55th St., Countryside. Visitation continues Saturday, December 30 from 9 to 10:30am at the funeral home. A procession to St. John’s Lutheran Church in LaGrange will follow. Funeral service 11am. Interment McClean Cemetery, in McClean, NY will take place privately.
Susan was such a kind, gentle, loving friend. This obituary describes her so perfectly. I will miss my dear friend. She will always be example of how a person’s life should be lived.
So sorry to hear that your sister passed. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Marty,
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time. Deepest sympathy,
Karyn V
We are so sorry for your loss. Susan’s presence brought light and joy into many lives; it is a testament to the beautiful soul she was, please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. Wishing you comfort and peace.
All our love,
John & Ronda
MARTY: your Lincoln Park Lacrosse Club teammates express our condolences on the loss of your wife. We know you will stand strong for your children. DHR
Pastor and Bev, my prayers are with your family. —Sue Ranbarger, Concordia Lutheran
I’m so sorry to hear of Susan’s passing and struggle with HD. Her compassion was something I remember from my time hanging out at the Fab house with Wendy. May your memories be a blessing and a salve during this time of grief.
Ryan Mcguire I’m am so sorry for loss! I hope you and you dad are handling with your emotions, having to feel better! I hope you and your dad and your brother and sister are doing well.
From Mitch.