Susan Jane Deckwa Adams

Susan Jane Deckwa Adams, of Lawrence, went to join her Heavenly Father January 4, 2024, at the age of 80. She found relief from her earthly suffering, following the painful progression of ALS. 

She was born on September 8, 1943 and then lovingly adopted by Edward and Lorene Deckwa, in El Dorado, KS. She later grew up and lived on the family farm, enjoying the country life, near Clearfield, KS. Many relatives and close friends were a big part of her life.

Susan attended Baldwin schools, where she made many life-long friends. 

She later worked outside of the home for Quality Electric and J&R Construction. She then started and operated Contractors Bookkeeping Service. Later she worked for CEK Insurance, until she retired. 

Susan spent over 35 years as a Board Member with O’Connell Youth Ranch. She filled every Board position numerous times and always had the boy’s best interests at heart and she was highly supportive of the Teaching Parents. Each year, she spent many hours purchasing Christmas gifts for each Staff member and filling big stockings for 24-30 boys. 

She attended and was active in the Clearfield United Methodist Church for many years. Most recently she attended Lawrence First Church of the Nazarene. 

Susan is survived by her brother David Deckwa and his wife Marysia of Phoenix, AZ; sister Lois Groh of Lawrence; son Jim Adams of Olathe; daughter Christi Forshee and her husband Cory of Camdenton, MO; son Travis Sage and his wife Alisha of Olathe, KS; six grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. Her Grands and Great-Grands were her pride and joy. She is also survived by many nieces, nephews and cousins that she loved dearly. She is also survived by Peanut, the most loving and supportive friend that she could have had. He spent day and night on her lap or sleeping next to her, until the very end. 

In death, Susan was preceded by her parents Edward and Lorene Deckwa; baby brother Frank Deckwa; grandparents Henry and Emma Deckwa and Frank and Mabel Williams. 

The family would like to thank all of the caregivers who helped Susan through one of the most difficult illnesses imaginable. 

A celebration of life service will be held February 24th at 11 am Lawrence First Church of the Nazarene 1470 N 1000 Rd Lawrence, KS 66046. Desserts will be served afterwards.

15 Condolences

  1. Donna Horner on January 6, 2024 at 9:28 pm

    So sorry for your loss, your friends at RyZenSun are all thinking of you at this time.



  2. Shy Mailen on January 7, 2024 at 2:44 pm

    My fondest memory of Susan was in her kitchen making cookies. Can almost smell the cookies baking. And her sweet smile. Hugs to you all while you grieve but rejoice in her new heavenly home.



  3. George & Cheryl Hunsinger on January 7, 2024 at 5:49 pm

    I delivered propane to her, back in my Heetco days. Sorry for your loss Jim.



  4. Carolyn (Chrisman) Jackson (Cousin Carolyn Sue) on January 7, 2024 at 11:40 pm

    Jimmy, so sorry for the loss of your mom. That is a beautiful picture of her, and the way I remember her. May your pleasant memories of her carry you through the sadness of her illness and incapacity these last several months. My thoughts and love are with you.



  5. Kathryn Heston on January 8, 2024 at 8:29 am

    I am so sorry for your loss. Although she is now at peace and no longer suffering, it doesn’t make it easier to grieve and accept.



  6. Pandora Taylor on January 8, 2024 at 12:40 pm

    Jimmy I’m so sorry for the loss of your mother. I so enjoyed her facebook posts and getting to know her through social media. She was a cool lady. Sending you a big hug from Indiana. -Pandora



  7. Frank &Sharon Molby on January 9, 2024 at 12:18 pm

    Jimmy, Christy, and family,
    So sorry to hear about your mom. She was a great person, always glad to see us, and I’m sure will be sadly missed by all who knew and loved her. Prayers and condolences to you and your family.🙏🏻🙏🏻
    Frank Molby, and family



  8. PATSY J HILTON on January 9, 2024 at 1:46 pm

    So sorry to hear of your loss of your Mom. I’m glad we were able to visit with her in October, even for a short time. You are in our thoughts and prayers.

    Patsy



  9. Kristi Rowland, DVM on January 10, 2024 at 10:30 pm

    Sending the family love and our deepest sympathies. Susan was a wonderful pet owner and it was our privilege to care for her many dogs over the years. Wishing you all comfort and love in this very difficult time. Kristi Rowland, DVM and staff of Wakarusa Veterinary Hospital.



  10. Tyron and Dody Carlson on January 22, 2024 at 10:54 am

    Susan was a very special lady. Really miss her. Sending my sympathy to you Jim and Kristi. She always was helping whenever needed.



  11. Lee and Pat Dau on January 24, 2024 at 8:54 am

    Our sincere condolences to you, Chris and your family. I am always interested in reading what is said about people in their obituaries. Clearly she was a servant of God and did much good here on her earthly journey. Peace to you all. ✝️



  12. Vonda Mailen on January 24, 2024 at 7:41 pm

    Jimmy,
    Your mother had a beautiful spirit and she will be missed on this earth but we have the joy in knowing that she is a resident in God’s eternal kingdom where she was welcomed with the greatest love. Her picture you shared is beautiful and the light of Jesus shines in her eyes. You have her spirit of giving. May God bless you always.



  13. Wendi Georgie on February 2, 2024 at 10:34 am

    Jim,
    I enjoyed your mother’s friendship, she was a strong, feisty lady and she will be missed by so many. Prayers of comfort for you and your family in this time of transition. Susan is dancing in Heaven, rejoicing with friends and family that were waiting for her!



  14. Uncle Phil and Aunt Dorothy Goodman Noblesville,Indiana on February 9, 2024 at 4:19 pm

    Jimmy, Christy and Family

    We were deeply saddened when we learned of Susan’s illness and the suffering that she was going through. We were very fortunate to visit with her and Jimmy in October during our trip to Kansas. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you during this difficult time. May God Bless all of you.

    Uncle Phil and Aunt Dorothy Goodman Noblesville, Indiana



  15. Linda Lederer on February 18, 2024 at 11:21 am

    I am so sorry I have lost a best friend at this time! I keep starting to call Susan and tell her important thing happening to me and see how she was. I know she has made a great appearance in Heaven . She will not hurt anymore and can watch over all if us that loved her so much! Rest in peace Susan!!❤️❤️❤️🙏🙏



Leave a Condolence