Our world has lost a very special person and heaven has welcomed a new angel. Susan E. Huffman passed away peacefully on May 29, 2026 at Hope Hospice House in Cape Coral, FL from metastatic cancer at the age of 75. This was as much a surprise for her as it was for her loved ones. Thankfully, she did not suffer for a long time. 

Susan was born on August 31, 1950 in Cleveland, Ohio. She lived a life rich in love, laughter, playfulness, thoughtfulness and generosity. She was the cherished daughter of Eileen (Lee) and Richard (Dick) Stakich and beloved niece of Terry & Bob Stakich, Violet and Ed Murphy, George & Althea Lozick, and Edward and Cathy Lozick, all of whom pre-deceased her. She was proud of her Croatian heritage and to call Cleveland her hometown. Sue graduated from Regina High School in 1968 and then attended Bowling Green State University from 1968 - 1970. She embraced the spirit of a college student of the times and earned the nickname "Rebel" while developing a wide taste of music from The Doors to Sinatra. After college, Susan worked for the next 40 years at Associated Estates in the Financial Department. She took particular pride in the precise reports she prepared to submit to the government.

 Sue moved to Cape Coral in 2009 and enjoyed many years living in the Sunshine State with old and new friends and her Florida relatives. These ties were of utmost importance to her. Sue never missed a chance to celebrate a birthday, anniversary or holiday or to shower affection on a dog! She loved boating and fishing well into her 60's. Sue was often lucky playing Casino slots or a game of cards. She was an avid fan of the Summer and Winter Olympics and cheered for the Cleveland Browns, Cleveland Indians and the Jacksonville Jaguars. Sue was an active member of the American Legion, Fraternal Order of Eagles, the Moose Fraternity and the VFW where she will be missed by many.

 Susie found love later in life and married Bert Huffman. They loved boating and road trips and shared many other adventures. Bert pre-deceased her in 2001. Sue is survived by her loving sister, Barbara Black and her brother-in-law, Don Black of Jacksonville Beach, FL; nephew, David Black and his wife, Mindy and their children, Parker and Jack; her niece, Laura Wilcoxen and her spouse, Derek and their children, Katie and William; her dear friends, Lou Pavlicek and James and Darien Workman; and many other family members and friends.

 Sue didn't want a fuss made at the end of her life. The family will have a private celebration of her life at Susan's favorite restaurant, Ariani's at a later date. If so inclined, please make a donation to your favorite charity to honor Sue and her spirit of giving. Let us be forever grateful for the times we laughed and shared with her.

Rest in Peace, Susie.