Joan Marie Sussman's Obituary
Joan Marie Sussman
October 6, 1937 - December 8, 2025
Resident of Danville/Walnut Creek
Mom, Grammie, Joanie, Joanaldo. We knew her by so many names because she played so many roles in our lives. Loving mother to Julie Atkinson and Joseph Sussman and welcoming mother-in-law to Dick Atkinson and Kristy Sussman. Doting Grammie to Dorothy, Elizabeth, Grace, Olivia, and Charlie. We find peace knowing she is finally with Dad who preceded her in death, 18 years ago.
We will remember her as a positive light, a tireless conversationalist, and the first to raise a glass in celebration. She was fiercely proud of her Bay Area roots and ideals, going all the way back to Oakland Tech and San Francisco State. Her twenties were spent chasing adventure, whether Mexico, Hawaii or Tahoe alongside Bev and Jackie.
A chance coffee shop introduction to Donald Sussman led to the beginning of a fairy tale life. Marriage, 1000-mile road trip honeymoon to Lake Louise in a two-seat convertible, building a home and a life in Danville. Julie and Joseph soon followed. Being a mom brought out the kid in her. Dancing, scary movies, kazoo solos and roller coasters even though she had motion sickness. PTA president, carnivals and chaperoning dances, whatever was going on, she wanted to be in the mix. Her parenting style swung from strict to permissive, even on the same day. Her motto was, “I just want the kids to have fun.” It was this spirit that she taught us how to chalk a fake ID in high school and procure fireworks in San Francisco while still in middle school.
If life is a book, one of her most memorable chapters is the years with Dad at MD Pharmacy. Running a business with your spouse could break a marriage, but Mom and Dad’s got stronger. The Norman Rockwell feel of Piedmont Ave. The joy they shared building their lives together. Being part of the community. It all made 44 years go by in the blink of an eye.
The love of her life, Donnie, left us far too soon. Fortunately, there were multiple people who helped her navigate this new chapter. Thank goodness for the lifeline of friends that was the ladies clubhouse and book club. They fostered new friendships and solidified old ones. There was always a celebration to look forward to. They softened the landing. Even though Mom didn’t have her number one travel companion anymore, she still had the spirit of adventure and visited all five grandkids during their college years. She kept her spirit and chased good times all the way to the end. Whether it was Perry’s on Union, a Manhattan at Tadich Grill, people watching at Balthazar or waiting in line at L’Entrecote, Mom loved a night on the town, good conversation and seeing people have a good time.
Friends and family are invited to a memorial service on Monday, December 22 at 11:00am at Chapel of the Chimes, 4499 Piedmont Ave, Oakland. A reception will follow the service.
What’s your fondest memory of Joan?
What’s a lesson you learned from Joan?
Share a story where Joan's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Joan you’ll never forget.
How did Joan make you smile?