Suzanne Therese Pedersen

It is with the heaviest hearts that we share the passing of our beloved mother, Suzanne Therese Pedersen. Suzanne passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 12, 2026 with her children by her side surrounded by love, stories, and music.

Suzanne was predeceased by Ivan, her devoted husband of 43 years.

Suzanne is lovingly remembered by her children, Annemarie (Dan), Charlotte (Thomas), and Christoffer (Celeste); her grandchildren, Evan and Emilia; and her siblings, Tony (Kathy), Juliet (Bob), David (Claire), Johnetta (Michael), and Phillip (Wendy).

Though her passing was unexpected, it does not overshadow her beautiful, full, and vibrant life.

Suzanne was born on August 13, 1949, in Georgetown, Guyana. From the very beginning, she was a fighter. Suzanne was born two months premature, but that didn’t stop her from growing strong in body and will. She fondly referred to herself as “botheration”, often getting into mischief as a child.

Suzanne was known for her warmth, spunk, and fearless honesty. She reminisced about the simple joys of her youth: going to parties, spending a few dollars on a pop and a sandwich, laughing and dancing with friends and family.

In 1970, Suzanne and her brother David made the journey to Canada together, beginning a new chapter that would shape the course of her life. Though her first Canadian winter nearly made her change her mind, Suzanne chose to stay and put down roots, living a life defined by resilience, joy, and enduring bonds.

Inspired by a desire to photograph sailboats on the water, in 1980 she sought out local sailing clubs. At Ashbridges Bay Yacht Club, she was told she could only join the committee boat as a student, so she signed up. As fate would have it, her sailing partner would become her partner in life, Ivan.

In 1982, Suzanne and Ivan married and began their life together. They built a beautiful home rooted in strong values and connection. No matter how busy life became, she made sure the family gathered around the kitchen table every night.

It was important to her that her children knew their roots. She created a seamless fusion of Guyanese, Portuguese and Danish traditions, which became the foundation for holidays and family gatherings.

Suzanne’s joyful spirit was infectious. Her laughter and playful sense of humour brought people together. She loved music and would often be found singing and dancing in the kitchen.

May we all carry on Suzanne’s legacy of kindness, curiosity, joy, and maybe a little mischief.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Sunnybrook Foundation, Ross Tilley Burn Centre.

To honour Suzanne’s wishes, her service will be a private gathering for family only.
We are deeply grateful for your love, support, and understanding during this time.
A link to the livestream will be available to view the service from your home.

We welcome you to honour Suzanne in a way that feels personal to you, whether sharing a memory, a message, or photos in the online guestbook, or making a donation below.