Susan Lalalei Laolagi-Spiedel - Online Memorial Website

Hi DannyBanany

I remember when Chris and I were around 10 or so. We lived in Norwalk at the time. You invited us to go to your home; I think it was the fancy home in Beverly Hills, but that's not what I remember: What I remember most is you made me and Chris pancakes, lots and lots of fluffy pancakes. I could tell even then that you loved making your loved ones smile. I still remember how I thought you always smelled so nice and looked so beautiful, yet not only that but you were a beautiful person and Auntie as well and I always remember FEELING GREAT AROUND YOU and at a young age kids remember this stuff! I remember once when I was a Freshman in college and dealing with the tribulations of acne and the such and you had taken me out to lunch in Westwood. I remember this vividly, you were dressed to the Nines, super-size shades on, smoking a cigarette and I said something like, "I am trying to get this acne under control and I feel so ugly sometimes." And you said "Michael, you look fine. You're very handsome." No fireworks, nothing more, just an Aunt who looked right at me and told me you loved me with those words. You have no idea what small genuine words of love and support mean to a young person...because they really are great. For some reason that is one of the memories that sticks out most. I will always remember your fun parties, hooting and hollering out "the hostess with the mostest" on video tape no less! I remember countless times that I just wanted to say hello to my local Auntie Susan while I was attending college and I would randomly stop in and you always were so happy to see me, and I even went out on the town with you and Jim a few times. I remember playing cards and listening to music and just cracking jokes in your 'back room' at your place in BH. That room (and the nice back patio) had so many cherished memories of just being relaxed and feeling loved. You always kept me fed and never made me feel like a bother. We watched movies sometimes at your place and you would even let me nap and would try not to let your dogs hump my leg too much lol (Was Raymond there in BH, too? I believe so...) I remember your karaoke and spending time together in Oregon, though less than in Los Angeles, it was still always nice to see you and Paul. You always said something silly after I had gotten settled like "Heyy Dude...How's work?" Or "how's your girlfriend?" You always asked how I was doing and you didn't ask out of courtesy; I could tell you really cared. You saw human beings as precious and cared for them as such...And your laugh...I think about your laugh more times than I care to admit. That smile and that laugh...Inimitable!~! You were a kind, very kind person, Auntie Susan. I think it's because you went thru so much pain growing up that you saw the fragility of human beings, the strength, yes, but also the fragility...and that tenderness is required in our cold cynical world...even today, perhaps especially today. You were taken away much much too soon but perhaps we need to miss you to really appreciate just how much you tried. Your life was not perfect and had some controversy (what great life doesn't?!), but you really tried and you GAVE and LOVED the best you could. I miss you very much; you are one of the most wonderful people I have ever had the pleasure of knowing. I am gushing in tears as I write this, Susan. I really hope there is a Heaven and that I make it because I would love nothing more than to see you again. THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU FOR TEACHING ME to be gentle, humble, and for always TRYING. :) MH

Life sure is different SusyQ. Your Spirit seems to be everywhere, tho'. Our next door neighbor's cat is named Susy AND she has the same cat painting as we do. Everytime I see someone wearing a piece of heart jewelry I smile and tell them how much you loved hearts and I thank them for bringing your Spirit to life for that moment. You always showed such strength, courage and grace in the face of your physical challenges. I still feel your Spirit close at hand, sometimes guiding me, sometimes chastising me, always loving all of us. Keep singing, keep karaoking, keep creating and keep dancing. Thanks for being the fearlessly talented, intelligent warrior guide in our lives. I love you and miss you and carry you in my heart for always. Xoooxo

Nana would tell me stories of you as a child.  She said you were so proud and quite stubborn.  :)  I wish you could see your grandchildren.  Your son seems to think Olivia is just like me, but my mom says that I was a really good baby...Olivia is, let's say, strong.  A strong Laolagi girl. 

 

Mya speaks of you so often, Susie.  She remembers and misses you.  We all do.

 

A funny thing happened on Mother's Day.  I pulled down my recipe box from the cupboard and in the back was a folded Mother's Day card from you, still with its envelope with your distinctive handwritting and xxoo's..."Somehow we always say the least to those we love the best..."  I love you very much, too.  I always will. 

 

 

There are so many wonderful memories I have of Auntie Susan. If she was there, then it was always a great time. I don't have a lot of memories of her from my childhood, but I was blessed enough to get the opportunity to make memories with her as an adult. When I was a young wife and mother, Susie made herself available to me as if she was my very own mother. No matter the time of day or how she was feeling that day, if I needed her, She was there. We had so much fun as we got to know each other. I could tell story after story, but the absolute best thing that Susie ever did for me, was to let me help her in her last days. Even as she was leaving this world she was everything that I one day hope to be. She was so selfless, as she approached her time to go, her only worry was for those who she was leaving behind. She was afraid to ask for anything, even a glass of water, because she was afraid she was a bother. But through all the suffering and pain she was feeling, only thought about everyone else. She was a very precious gem. I was so blessed to be able to be with her during this time, Thank you Susie for allowing me to be there for you! I will forever be a better person because you shared that time with me.

 

 

Susan and I were friends at PUC elementary school.  She was such a wonderful sweet girl.  She was so much fun, and just a real joy to be around.  I'm so sorry to hear of her passing.  My prayers are with each of her family members.

To The Dear Laolagi Family,


Take care and Love to all the family,

Sam Letele

Hello to all of Susan's family (Vicki, Jon, Shelley, Lynne and Tina.)  I can only imagine how you must be feeling with your tremendous loss of Susan.  I am deeply saddened by the shocking news of Susan's death.  May God be with all of you.  My heart and my prayers are with each and every one of you.   It won't be long before we will all see her again in heaven.

 

All my love,

 

Judy Hitchcock (Please email me @ freetobe57@yahoo.com)  I would love to hear from you!