Susan Emily Bustamante

Susan Emily Payne Bustamante, named after her maternal grandmother, was born November 13, 1955 in Mesa, AZ to Byron Gordon Sr. and Billie (Vanorman) Frances Payne. She was the youngest of 4 siblings survived by oldest sister Charlotte (Payne) Weldon, and brothers Byron (Gordon) and Rex Payne. Her early childhood years were in Tempe and full of laughter, imagination, and of course many friends and fun. By the 5th grade her family relocated to the copper mining town of Douglas, AZ. Here is where Susan thrived in the culture of a loving community and lived a precious life with many friends that have now and forever will be long lasting relationships with her family. After graduating from high school Susan moved to and lived in Flagstaff, AZ while attending Northern Arizona University. She then later relocated to Tucson, AZ to further pursue her education at the University of Arizona. She would eventually return to Mesa to be married and raise 3 lovely children; Marisa (Arevalo) Gilchrist and brothers Michael and David Arevalo.

Her entire professional career proved a successful accomplishment of over 35 years as an Executive and Administrative Assistant to CEO, VP and Directors of major companies especially in the Aerospace business. Her most recent employment since 2011 was with local Chandler, AZ business, Kovach LLC., where she would fulfill a lifelong and satisfying career. The relationships she built while at Kovach LLC., transcended much heartfelt personal relationships all around and added this as an extended family which meant so much to her.

In September of 2005, Susan was married to the man of her dreams, Bernie, and became Mrs. Susan Emily Bustamante. With this new marriage, she gained two more sons; Corey and Nic. She loved them as her own. She provided all of her children with the guidance, structure, love and support that helped them to become the adults they are today. Her 5 children brought 8 grandchildren into this world with Briana, Logan, Kiley, Lennox, Wesley, Ethan, Tanner and Kelsey. She loved them endlessly.

On October 13, 2016, surrounded by her family, Susan was called to Heaven by her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. She was deeply loyal, so very authentic, and loved fiercely and provided to all with a huge Heart of Gold. She will always be remembered for the laughter, great memories and her gift of LOVE. We thank God for the blessing of Susan in our lives.

The Celebration of Susan’s Life was held on October 22, 2016 at the Discovery Community Church in Gilbert AZ. In lieu of flowers, the family asks your donations be kindly made in honor of her favorite charity to ICAN.org http://icanaz.org/get-involved/donate Richardson Funeral Home, Tempe, Arizona is compassionately serving the family.

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