Susan Louise (Johnson) Nestel

Susan Louise (Johnson) Nestel, who loved to be called “Mom” and “Grandma”, departed her loving family on January 9, 2021.

Sue was born in Binghamton NY, on August 19, 1944 to Arlene and William Johnson.  She attended Binghamton Central High School, graduating in 1962.  Then she attended Rochester Institute of Technology, graduating in 1967 with a degree in medical technology. 

She married Robert (Bob) Nestel in 1967, recently celebrating their 53 year of marriage. 

Sue was mother to James (Patricia), Mark (Michele), and Scott (Sara). She raised her children with love and devotion in San Jose CA, Doylestown PA, Melbourne FL, and New Fairfield CT, with her husband Robert.

During her working years, Sue worked at Merck Pharmaceuticals in virus research, at Melbourne High School in Florida, and at Danbury Hospital in Connecticut. Her adventures include working with Whitley Furniture to rebuild and refurnish both the JFK replica of the Resolute Desk and Benjamin Franklin’s chair.  Her hobbies included reading and puzzles. She was most proud of her role as mother and grandmother.

She is survived by her 3 children, and 6 grandchildren (Maddie, Lincoln, Liam, Sebastian, Simon, and Samuel).  She doted on them with love and attention, always dedicating time to each of them individually.  Sue loved to work puzzles, play games, and build Legos, helping each of the children thrive. Her one wish was that she would see them grow up to be the amazing people we know they will each become.  

Sue is survived by her brother, Philip Johnson and his wife Terri, originally of Vestal NY and now of The Villages, FL and many other friends and family members.

Sue was diagnosed with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF) in 2018.  There are innumerable people and practices to thank for their dedication to Sue’s care.  Dr. Papali and his practice at Atrium Health went above and beyond.  Duke Division of Pulmonary Health, Dr. Marshall, Next Breath and various IPF support groups all continue to look for a cure for IPF, while supporting Sue’s individual needs.  Each contributed to the successes that Sue had seen over the last 3 years.  Thank you all for everything.

A memorial will be planned when we can gather together safely.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Health Well Foundation in Sue’s name.

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