Skip Suhay

Skip Suhay

~1945 until 2014~

E T Russell, May 7, 2014 ____ The description "Service Above Self" best fits a well known citizen of the Big Bear Valley, Skip Suhay, who passed away this week. For thirty-five years in the Big Bear Valley, the man who loved life, brought joy and laughter wherever he appeared, will remain in the hearts of many family and friends. No matter whether it be servicing his Bear Valley Carpet Cleaning customers, sharing with fellow members of the Rotary Club of Big Bear Lake, dancing. at Oktoberfest, serving on the MWD board or various other events, setting up the fireworksfor the next 4^thof July,or any other community opportunities; Skip Suhay welcomed them and took them on as privileges.   

Skip's Rotary "Service Above Self" was exemplified by his passion in annually assuring that the July 4th fireworks show was always something the entire valley could proudly brag about. The Rotary Club counted on his leadership by electing him Club President twice. His humor even in difficult times was appreciated and enjoyed by everyone in the club. All of us will miss him greatly.  

It is said that the measure of a great Board member is the value and effectiveness of the policies he or she develops over the course of their tenure. Skip's contribution is reflected in the guidance the MWD relies on while managing operations on the Lake. From the use of private docks to weed management to conditions for special events his influence has been invaluable time and time again. After serving the District for nearly 16 years his contributions to Lake Management will be sorely missed by the Board and especially the Staff.

Skip is survived by his wife, Karen, son Andy, daughters Jeannette Suhay and Denice Cody, five grand-children. Also Skip’s brothers are Gary Suhay, Ed Suhay and their families.

Saturday, May 10, at 11:00 A.M. there will be a Memorial Mass held at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, on North Shore Drive, east of Starvation Flat Road. Following the service friends are invited to join the Suhay Family at the Celebration of Life Ceremony to be at the East Boat Launch Ramp, west of the church at lakeside. Attendants are requested to not wear black. Instead, respecting Skip’s wishes, please wear Tommy Bahama island shirts, Oktoberfest, or July 4th red, white and blue. Live-music and treats will be available; while friends are welcome to share their ‘Skip Stories’.    

In lieu of flowers, it is appreciated that donations be made in Skip Suhay’s memory, to either organizations: Big Bear Lake Rotary, P.O.B. 615, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315; Hospice, the American Cancer Society at www.cancer.org. or Visiting Nurse Association, 12421 Hesperia Road, Suite 11, Victorville, CA 92396.