Susan “Cookie” Denise Shane, 61, of Bellingham, Washington, passed away peacefully at home on March 24, 2025 after a 6-month battle with cancer.

Susan was born on October 24th, 1963 to William and Barbara Shane in Enumclaw, WA. “Daddy’s little girl” lived a full childhood on their small farm with her family, helping with the chores in her own way. The family cherished time together while boating the Puget Sound and camping. Susan also enjoyed riding her bike and roller skating with her sister Cindy, and later helping care for baby sister Debby.

At age 12, Susan moved to Mountain View Group Home in Ferndale where she attended Ferndale High School and in 1985 earned a diploma from Redwood Park School in Bellingham. She then joined Evergreen Supported Living in Bellingham where she lived the remainder of her life.

She began working as an assembly line worker in 1986 through Whatcom Workshops. Susan excelled at this work for 23 years, taking the bus independently and enjoying the social life that came with employment.

Special Olympics was also a big part of Susan’s life for many years and she competed in basketball, the softball throw, swimming, running and volleyball.

Involvement in the community was so important to Susan, attending special events, parades, music shows, SPIN dances and especially visits to the Squalicum Marina where her father used to moor his boat. Crafting, baking, card-making and photography were some of her other interests. Susan had a big heart and enjoyed sharing her creations with people. Some of her many collections included fingernail polish, water/soda bottles, bags, coffee mugs, and most recently, Christmas sweaters which she enjoyed throughout the year.

Susan was known for her fun-loving, playful, and at times head-strong personality and was often the life of the party, especially during gatherings at Evergreen Supported Living. She was quick-witted and although possessed limited language, was able to communicate in her own unique way. Susan was a fixture in the community and brought light and joy to many. She will be sorely missed.

Susan was preceded in death by her mother, Barbara B Shane and father, William R Shane. She is survived by sisters Cindy (Donald) Boose of Ferndale, and Debby (Joey) Gardner of Kalispell; Nieces Vanessa (Luke) Stibbs, Adrianna (Micah) Tunison, Brittany (Will) Baasch and Courtney Boose; Nephews Caleb Gardner, Josiah (Abi) Gardner, Jonathan Gardner, David Gardner and Jeremiah Gardner; Great-Nephews/Nieces Elias Stibbs, Evelyn Baasch, Calico Stibbs and John Baasch. Susan adored her family, holding a special place in her heart for the young ones.

A memorial service will take place on June 7, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at Fisherman’s Pavilion, 2599 S Harbor Loop Dr., Bellingham, WA. 98225.

The family would like to extend a very special thank you to the countless caregivers and staff at Evergreen Supported Living. Thank you for loving her so well for 40 years: You have been a gift to us all!