Susan A. Bear-Fourness, 67, of Coudersport
2 min readSusan A. Bear-Fourness, 67, of Coudersport, PA, died Wednesday, February 9, 2011 at Hamot Medical Center, Erie, after a short illness.
Born July 13, 1943 in Quakertown, she was a daughter of Douglas E. and Adele P. Sutryn Mode.
Susan was a graduate of Quakertown High School and the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia with her bachelor’s degree in chemistry.
Susan, along with her former husband, Ted Bear, owned and operated the former Old Hickory Hotel, Bar & Restaurant in Coudersport for many years.
She was also a journalist and photographer for the Leader Enterprise for a number of years during the late 1980’s. After leaving the Leader Enterprise, she embarked on a new venture, as co-owner of a print shop. During this time she created a monthly magazine circulated in Potter County called “The Howling Moon”, which was produced at her business, Just Printing, in Sweden Valley. Susan moved to the New England area where she lived for several years until returning to Potter County in September of 2010.
An accomplished artist, Susan sold her paintings, many of which were portraits of pets. She had a great love of animals and enjoyed horseback riding. She also enjoyed fly fishing. She played the piano and the guitar. She took part in local plays and musicals, including performances with the Potter Players of Coudersport. She and her beloved brother, Michael, had an on going Scrabble match for over 30 years. Suzi won the last game.
Surviving are two sons, Peter D. Miller of Holly Springs, NC and Andrew K. (Laurie) Miller of Hollis, NH; a granddaughter, Nora E. Miller; a grandson, Elliott B. Miller; a brother, Michael D. (Lynn) Mode of New Haven, VT; and two nieces.
Susan was predeceased by her parents.
There will be no public visitation. A memorial service will be held in the spring at a date and location to be announced.
Flowers are gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to the Humane Society of the U.S., 2100 L Street NW, Washington, DC 20037 or to the Coudersport Library, Park Avenue, Coudersport, PA 16915.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse, PA.
Suzi will be greatly missed. I will always remember her zest for life, her passion for the arts and her never ending smile. Rest in Peace Suzi.
Suzi was a very good friend. Did not know her as many years as I would have liked but the few years I did she lit my life.
God Bless You Suzi.
My sympathies to her dear family.
Suzie was a happy soul. I enjoyed the few times going out, and having a fine glass of wine. She will be missed she was one classy lady
I loved visiting the Old Hickory Tavern for a beer because I knew Suzie would be there, and happy to see everyone. What a loss.