December 22, 1935 – November 25, 2018
Sue’s life touched many lives before entering hospice in early November and passing away at home on November 25, surrounded by family. Born to Irish immigrants Margaret and Edward McMenamin, Sue was the youngest of six siblings, was raised in Philadelphia and attended West Philadelphia Girls Catholic School.
Her life took flight as a stewardess for American Airlines. Based in Chicago, New York City and finally Los Angeles, she met and married airline pilot Bill Knowlton and raised three children in Southern California.
Sue was a sales manager, state-wide trainer and finally manager of the Santa Ana branch of NutriSystems in California. In 1990, she and Bill moved to Blaine, WA and together owned and operated Mailboxes Int’l on H Street until 2004.
In recent years, Sue coordinated the Birch Bay women’s bridge group, played bridge with the local duplicate group; volunteered for the Salvation Army, was an active member of St. Anne Catholic Parish and enjoyed visits with her grandsons.
A beloved wife, mom, grandma, aunt and great-aunt, she is survived by husband Bill, daughter Patricia “Olivia,” son Jim, daughter-in-law Rocio, grandchildren Diego and Santiago, and numerous beloved in-laws, nieces, nephews and their children.
Sue’s funeral mass will be held at St. Anne Catholic Church, 604 H Street, Blaine, WA on Thursday, December 20 at 11 a.m. followed by a noon luncheon and celebration of her life.
An active member of St. Anne’s, Sue’s faith and devotion to Jesus and the Blessed Mother was steadfast throughout her life. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to St. Anne Outreach. Mail check to: 5781 Hendrickson Ave, Ferndale, WA 98248. In comments, please write: In honor of Sue Knowlton.
