It is with profound heartbreak and deep sorrow, we announce the peaceful passing of Susan Bureyko (nee Taylor), at the age of 73, on March 7, 2025 at home, surrounded by her loving family after a 4-year (extended) battle with cancer. Throughout her illness, Susan faced each challenge with remarkable strength, courage, and grace. Susan's family was by her side as she passed, and her legacy of love and caring and her resilience will remain in the hearts of all who knew her.
Susan was born on March 12th, 1951, in Fort William to parents Jack and Evelyn Taylor. She was educated in local schools and met the love of her life, Brian, in high school. They married ten years later and celebrated 46 years of marriage this past June. Together, they were blessed with two wonderful children, Taylor and Britton. The greatest joy in Susan’s life was her family, and she devoted much of her time to supporting and following their activities as they grew. She loved watching her children participate in and enjoy various sports and activities. The family shared many happy times together, including summers at their Sunnyside Beach camp. The camp was a gathering place, not only for her family and friends, but also for Taylor and Britton’s friends. It was a place where kid’s activities overlapped with social and family activities, where wonderful memories were born and forever will be remembered and cherished. In retirement, Susan and Brian spent over ten years travelling to SSI in Georgia, where they made many new friends and enjoyed the many southern hospitalities offered on the island. Her family and friends were such a large part of her world, and her love for them will continue to shine throughout their lives.
Susan’s passion for teaching began at a young age, when she spent hours playing school and dreaming of a future in education. From early on, she knew that she wanted to become a teacher, and she achieved her goal after completing her studies at Lakehead University’s Faculty of Education. She enjoyed a rewarding career as an elementary teacher with the Lakehead District School Board, teaching in numerous schools across the city. Most of her career was dedicated to kindergarten, a role that brought her immense joy. She was devoted to shaping young minds and creating exciting learning experiences for her students. Throughout her career, she remained focused, hardworking, and passionate about her work, and these qualities extended into every aspect of her life. Susan’s commitment to her profession was unwavering, and teaching was truly her calling. She retired after 30 years, leaving behind a legacy of dedicated service and cherished memories with those she taught and worked alongside. Over the years, Susan formed many lasting friendships with colleagues, staff, and parents.
Susan was a lifelong member of First Wesley United Church, and as an adult, she took great joy in being an active part of the church family and the United Church Women until her recent illness. The members and friends of her church were deeply important to her.She was also a devoted 40-year member of the Naomi Ruth Women’s Group, cherishing the friendships she formed with these women and their families.
Friendships were very important to Susan, and none were more important than her over 50 years of lasting friendships with her Stitch Group - high school friends. These friendships were a constant source of joy and inspiration, fostering a sense of love and laughter that she held dear. Susan valued the time spent with these friends, holding their relationships close to her heart and treasuring the deep connections she had with them.
She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by her husband Brian; her son, Taylor (Claire Morrison); her daughter, Britton (Chris Thaler); and her grandchildren, Paisley Thaler and Henry Bureyko. Also mourning her passing are her in-laws, Robin and Lorna Holbrook, Connie Bureyko, Cheri and Rob Kruse, and their families, along with numerous nieces and nephews. She will be especially missed by her cousin, Barbara Plunkett, who was like a sister to her. Additionally, she leaves behind many close friends and relatives who provided her with love and support during her illness.Susan was predeceased by her parents, Jack and Evelyn Taylor; her sister, Elizabeth; her in-laws, Andrew and Grace Bureyko; and her brother-in-law, Larry Bureyko.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to the nurses and staff at the Thunder Bay Regional Cancer Centre and the Regional Hospital for their exceptional care and compassion. Special thanks are also given to Dr. Williams, Dr. Chan, and Dr. Sellick for their compassionate understanding of Susan's desire to leave this life on her own terms.
During this time of heartache, treasure the memories of Susan and live each day to the fullest, as she wanted to be remembered with happiness. She lived a full and beautiful life, one that will be forever cherished by all who knew her. She was a source of inspiration to us, teaching the importance of love and caring, of laughter and joy in our lives. Susan, we hope you are at peace; you are deeply loved and will forever remain in our hearts.
In accordance with Susan’s wishes, cremation has taken place and a memorial service will be held at First Wesley United Church in May 2025, with further details to be announced at a later date. If desired, donations in Susan's remembrance can be made to the Northern Cancer Foundation at Thunder Bay Regional or to First Wesley United Church on Brodie Street.
