Susan J. Schwager

Susan J. Schwager of Marion, Mass and St. Augustine, FL passed away peacefully on November 1, 2022. Susan leaves her husband and best friend for 50 years Stephen Carnazza, sons Kyle of Marion and Nicholas of Rochester. She was pre-deceased by her only sibling Linda Hettel.

            Born to Herman ‘Bud’ Schwager and Alene Clayberg, in Auburn, Mass. Growing up in a household where frugality was the norm and became standard practice in her own Schwager/Carnazza house. Suzie was one of the pioneers of Reduce, Reuse and Recycle, always enjoying the challenge.

            Susan graduated from Auburn High 1970, New England College 1973. Started her professional career with The State of Massachusetts Social Services as the Assistant Director of Training. She became the Director of the Marion Council on Aging, expanding the limited services to the present day Senior Center. Retiring in 2015 to enjoy life and traveling.

            Susan loved the outdoors, from tending to her flower and vegetable gardens, walking many trails and beaches with her friends to sunset sails on SUE SEA. Her love for travel, took her to many countries from New Zealand to Scotland. Throughout the US, visiting the many National Parks. One of her favorite trips was rafting the Colorado River with her family and friends.

            Susan was an avid tennis player, very proficient at hitting the ball where her opponents were not. Who coined the phrase “You’ve been Schwagered”. She was the Tennis Coach at Bishop Stang HS, member of the Sippican Tennis Club, Marion Indoor Club, Marsh Creek Tennis Club. She played USTA Team Competition and on many southcoast travel teams.

            Susan was very active in Marion, a board member of VASE, Coastline Elderly, Life Stream Independent Living, Marion Cultural Council and was a Trustee of the Elizabeth Tabor Library. For over 20 years, with her two friends, organized the donated books for the Annual Library Book Sale. Raising thousands of dollars annually and suppling a steady stream of books for Susie to read. She was named Woman of the Year by The New Bedford Standard Times.

            In addition to husband and sons, she is survived by her brother and sister in-laws Jim and Cory Carnazza of Edgartown and many nieces and nephews.

            In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Marion Council on Aging’s Emergency Fund.

            There will a Celebration of Life Service on November 20 @ 12 pm at the Tabor’s Wickenden Chapel Spring St. Marion, followed by a Friendship gathering at the Marion COA Hall.