Winona Ball

Winona Suzanne Ball “Suzy”

Mother, Nana, activist for equity, lifelong learner, world traveler, avid reader and published writer, retired nurse turned professional volunteer. Suzy taught others how to live imperfectly, grow from experiences, value authenticity, and that goals and expectations should be self-determined.

Suzy hiked the Camino de Santiago through Spain at 68, climbed Machu Picchu in Peru at 74, served at the Joliet Food Bank every Tuesday and Friday, led evening classes for adults who were learning English, and spent hours sitting and reading with those experiencing terminal illness alone. She was an incredibly committed classroom volunteer during her daughter’s years of teaching.

She believed in “celebrations” of everything big and small- moving to a new home or completing a tough workout, a successful new recipe or finishing a book series. She celebrated with grandchildren after they won basketball games, learned to ride bikes, and started new school years. “Bubbles” were part of all celebrations, big and small: sparkling water, sparkling juice, or champagne. So many toasts, so many bubbles.

Suzy collected friends from all over the world and made connections with people through every adventure and phase of life. Her sincere request was that- instead of a service, she wanted everyone to go have a nice dinner and give “cheers” to her.

Now We Celebrate- have some bubbles. Toast to Suzy/Mom/Nana… CHEERS to an incredible woman, her lasting impression, and to her life well lived.

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