Susan Maker

Susan Maker, born July 21, 1948, in Dover, Massachusetts, was the daughter of Leslie and Doris (Dove) Maker. She is survived by her longtime partner James Palmer, cousins, nieces, nephews, and many friends.

Sue’s cousins, Judy and Bob Wotton, Joe and Bonnie Fryer, Jonathan and MaryJane Fryer, their children, and grandchildren mourn the loss of a well-loved “sister”. Sue was raised like a sibling with Judy, Joe and Jono and their many years together were intertwined in playing, hiking, ice skating, vacationing, and family gatherings. Whether learning to play baseball, or drive, or summers on West Island in Friendship, Maine, the antics of life with ducks, geese, volunteering or community service Sue was involved! She was a wonderful “Aunt” to nieces and nephews and took great delight in their lives. Her last big family adventure was attending her niece’s wedding in Nashville several years ago, where she sang and danced the night away. She will be missed for her kindness, humor, and joy of family and friends.

Susan, a proud Simmons University alumna since 1970, supported her school each year. Known for her selflessness and kindness, Sue was not only a devoted daughter but also a thoughtful cousin, an exceptional friend, and an energetic worker. She was recognized for her compassion, patience, and humility.

Sue worked her entire career at The Department of Public Health State Laboratory Institute, retiring on December 31, 2009, after 42 years of service. She started out working on throat cultures and then ended her career working in the Enteric Lab.  In 1983 Sue was instrumental in diagnosing a baby with botulism and at that time, was asked to meet the baby’s parents in the hospital.  Botulism testing became Sue’s forte, and she trained many co-workers in this special test.

Sue participated actively in the American Society of Microbiologists, served on the Dover Memorial Day Committee, and was also involved with the Dover Women’s Alliance.

Sue enjoyed spending time on Block Island, RI with James, their friends—including Peggy, Caryn, two Ellens, Janis, Nancy, Marion, Kara, Doris, Barbara, Donna, and William—and visits from James’ family: Claire, Kris, Abby, Jacob, and Tom, creating lasting memories together.

Sue played a vital role in the Palmer and Maldonado Families, joining them in every celebration. James’s mother Kathleen, who passed away in 2014, had great affection for Sue. Claire, Tom, Ryan, Lee, Kris, Jacob, Abby along with Kris’ late husband Kevin, and dogs Bear, Seamus, and Finbar will fondly remember her cheerful smile, infectious laughter, delicious cooking, and love for dogs.

Throughout Sue's long time receiving nursing care, she and James were supported by friends Ellen, Peggy, Caryn, John, Karen, as well as cousins Judy, Jono, Boomer, the Palmer family and long-time friend Anne.

We will miss Sue greatly but know that she will be joining her parents. Rest in Peace Sue.

Visiting hours will be held in the Eaton Funeral Home, 1351 Highland Ave, Needham, on Thursday April 16th from 4-7pm. A Funeral Service will be held in the Dover Church, 17 Springdale Ave, Dover, on Friday April 17th at 10am. Interment at Highland Cemetery, Dover. 

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