With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Susan Margaret Beverley Dannheim—a magical woman whose vivacious spirit, boundless compassion, and unwavering love touched countless lives.
Born to Donald and Pauline Beverley of Toronto and granddaughter of Bishop Alton Ray Beverley of the Anglican Church of Toronto, Susan inherited a legacy of faith, service, and community leadership that she carried forward throughout her extraordinary life.
Sue’s devotion to family was the cornerstone of her being. As a loving wife, mother to four children, and “Tutu” (Hawaiian for grandmother) to seven grandchildren, she lived for her family. Her home was a haven of warmth, laughter, and unconditional love.
Her daughter, given no chance of survival at birth, defied all medical expectations and, through Sue’s unwavering love and dedicated care, lived a beautiful life that touched many hearts until just before her tenth birthday. The journey of motherhood shaped Sue’s extraordinary capacity for hope, resilience, and cherishing every moment with those she loved.
Perhaps Sue’s most extraordinary act of love occurred during her daughter’s illness in the 1970s, when renal medicine—and especially kidney transplantation—was still in its infancy. In an era before effective anti-rejection medications, Sue donated her kidney in a grueling 12-hour surgery to save her daughter’s life. As one of the earliest participants in mid-1970s peritoneal dialysis programs, Sue not only served as a caregiver but also joined her daughter in advancing the field of renal medicine. Her selfless donation exemplified her limitless capacity for giving, and her daughter’s journey through three kidney transplants became a testament to Sue’s unwavering strength and devotion.
Sue’s commitment to her children extended beyond the home and into their education. As President of the PTA at Calvin Coolidge School, she championed innovation, leading efforts to build a state-of-the-art playground and establishing the school’s first media center in 1992—pioneering the use of computers in education. She later organized an unforgettable Project Graduation for Moorestown High School’s Class of 1998, creating cherished lifelong memories for an entire generation of students.
As though that wasn’t enough, Sue built a successful career in real estate, consistently recognized as a top agent and earning honors such as the President’s Club and Circle of Excellence. She held multiple professional accreditations and lived by the motto: “If it’s worth doing, it’s worth doing well.” She was the embodiment of this ideal—always striving for perfection in the lives of her family, clients, and friends.
Sue was a radiant presence. Wherever she went, she lit up the room with love, enthusiasm, and grace. She was a devoted wife, a loving mother and grandmother, a leader, a loyal friend, a passionate gardener, an extraordinary tennis player, and a trusted realtor. We are blessed to have known her and forever grateful to call her our Mum and Tutu.
Sue is survived by her children and their families:
• William Dannheim, married to Searcy – Children: Suzanne, Abigail, and William
• David Dannheim, married to Rebecca – Children: Addison and McKenzie
• Michael Dannheim, married to Amy – Children: Charlie and Ty
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the Kidney Foundation in Sue Dannheim’s memory.
