A force of nature, an inspiration and friend to all, Suzan Kaufman passed away peacefully in her home surrounded by loved ones on the morning of February 28 after a brief but brave battle with cancer.
Born on July 16, 1955, in Bowling Green, OH, Suzan was the eldest daughter of Thomas and Carolyn Kaufman.
From a young age, Suzan exhibited a zest for life and a deep curiosity for the world around her. She carried these qualities with her throughout her life, leaving an indelible mark on all who were fortunate to know her.
Suzan graduated from Elmwood High School in 1973 and pursued higher education with passion and determination. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy from “The Ohio State University” in 1977 and obtained her Masters of Business Administration from the University of Cincinnati in 1985.
Her professional journey began as a cardio rehabilitation specialist at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago, IL, and culminated in a career in human resources at Dollar Tree Stores’ corporate headquarters, where she retired as the Vice President of Human Resources.
On January 11, 1997, Suzan married the love of her life, William Jeffery Frizzell. Together, they shared 29 wonderful and adventurous years, filled with love, laughter, and countless memories.
Suzan’s greatest joy came from her friends and family. She is survived by her devoted husband, Jeff, her loving son, Devin Frizzell, and her spirited granddaughters, Violet and Penelope Frizzell, and her beloved sisters Cathy (Dave) Wagner and Peggy (Jim) Philo of Bowling Green, OH.
All people die, but not all people live. And live she did.
Suzan’s travels took her around the world exploring cultures and experiences. She was a Level 1 wine sommelier, an avid golfer, cigar aficionado, yoga practitioner and runner who lived life with vigor and enthusiasm. Suzan’s dedication to fitness was unwavering, impressively undertaking box jumps and clean and jerks even after turning 70. Her competitive spirit drove her to run the Rock’n’Roll half marathon and compete in the Sandman Triathlon. Yet, it was her prodigious love of reading that truly defined her quest for knowledge—she read an astonishing 93 books in 2020 alone.
Suzan’s warmth and generosity extended beyond her immediate circle. She served as Vice Chairman of the Norfolk Public School Board, where she positively impacted countless lives. Her mentorship and kindness were a testament to her belief in the potential of every individual.
A connoisseur of life, she found beauty everywhere. Her love for animals was evident in her many canine companions over the years.
The family expresses deep gratitude to the staff at Sentara Leigh Hospital and Sentara Home Care Services for their compassionate care. Big love to the friends and family who provided unwavering support and comfort during her final days.
In keeping with her wishes, there will be a celebration of life gathering on March 21, 2026 from 2-4 p.m. at Suzan & Jeff’s home in Virginia Beach.
Suzan will be remembered for her strength, curiosity, generosity and her ability to encourage and empower those around her. We will miss her deeply; however, we will carry forward the way she lived…fully, bravely and with heart.
Arrangements are being handled by Smith & Williams Funeral Home in Virginia Beach. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to The HER Shelter or For Kids in Suzan’s memory.
