Susan Lee Sternaman-Belser

In Loving Memory of Susan Sternaman-Belser 

Born in 1946, she touched the lives of many during her journey on this earth. It is with a heavy heart that we announce her peaceful passing in April 2023. Please join us in mourning our loss, at her funeral on Friday, May 19, 2023, at 11 am at the Church of Christ,  2528 El Cajon Blvd, San Diego, CA.

Susan Lee Sternaman was born to her parents, Florence Marie Sternaman and Walter Louis Sternaman, and raised in San Diego County California.  She attended both El Cajon Valley High School and El Capitan High School where she graduated in 1964.

Susan's life was filled with love, art, and a deep commitment to her family and community. Her journey unfolded through a series of extraordinary moments, each leaving an indelible mark on her path. 

In 1972, while attending the Institute Allende in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, she took a vacation to San Diego, CA. It was during a dinner at the Admiral Kidd Club, while with her mother, that she serendipitously met the love of her life, Naval Officer Richard Baker Belser, III. Their connection endured, even through his absence during his service in Vietnam. In 1974, they were reunited once again, and never left each other's side. 

Susan’s artistic passion led her to pursue her education, and in 1975, she graduated from Grossmont College with an AA in Fine Arts. That same year, she married Richard, a single father, and lovingly embraced her role as a mother to his son, David Rusty Belser.

She was baptized into Christ in 1977, and was a faithful member of the Church of Christ until she was called to her eternal home.

In 1981-1982, she and David joined Richard in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, where her love and finesse kept them together and safely returned to their home on Plumosa Park in 1983.  

After David grew up and got married, Susan’s devotion extended to her daughter-in-law, Misty Giordano Belser, while visiting them often in San Francisco, CA. And once her granddaughter, Louise Baker Belser, was born she found great joy in the presence of her entire family. 

Including her daughter, Deborah Dowell Tobin, and her granddaughters Chontelle Lorene Madeline Waters, Toree Nicole Waters, and Elizabeth Antoinette Shelton. As  well, her great-grandchildren Maddison Skye Waters, Emmitt Tyler Waters and Kairo Carlos Ruiz, brought immeasurable happiness into her life. She treasured every moment spent with them, showering them with love and support.

Susan also held a special place in her heart for her brother Walter Franklin Sternaman, nieces Renée Sternaman Bosley, Mendi Jean Komaromi, Natasha Ellen Miranda, and cousin Ruby Andriette Glazier. Her family bond was her source of strength.

Throughout her life, Susan achieved remarkable milestones and made a lasting impact. Her artistic talents shone brightly, as her work was exhibited in museums and galleries in San Diego and Las Vegas. Susan's eye for design extended beyond her artwork, as she skillfully created a warm and inviting home for her family, a testament to her creativity and love. 

Susan's compassion knew no bounds. She dedicated her time and energy to helping the less fortunate, particularly children at the St. Vincent de Paul - Joan Kroc homeless shelter. Her heart of gold radiated as she selflessly cared for both of her parents during their declining health, exemplifying her devotion to family and her nurturing nature. 

As a dedicated Navy wife, Susan received multiple certificates of appreciation, a testament to her support and commitment to her husband's naval career. Her love and strength served as an anchor for her family during times of separation and sacrifice. 

Any floral arrangements are gratefully appreciated, please send to Featheringill Mortuary at 6322 El Cajon Blvd, San Diego, CA on or before Thursday, May 18, 2023. ( 619) 583-9511.

Susan Sternaman-Belser's departure leaves a void in the lives of those who knew and loved her. Her spirit, love, and warmth will continue to live on in our hearts and her presence will be deeply missed by all.