Suzanne Hawk

Born in Altoona, Suzanne was the cherished daughter of Harry and Alma Wright and grew up surrounded by the love of her family, with whom she shared a lifetime of memories and laughter.

She was married to James Hawk, her partner in life for 63 years, and together they built a home filled with love, respect and enduring companionship.

Suzanne is survived by her brother, Barry Wright and his wife, Susan; son, Marty Hawk and his wife, Christine, and her grandchildren: Kirsten, Katelin, Jessica and James; and son, Jeffrey Hawk and his fiancee, Katie Scharpf, and her grandchildren: Jameson, Jenna and Justin. Her family was her greatest joy, and she delighted in watching it grow with the arrival of her grandchildren, whom she adored beyond measure.

A proud 1958 graduate of Altoona High School, Suzanne then achieved her bachelor’s degree from the Indiana University of PA and, soon after, her master’s degree from Johns Hopkins University.

Suzanne went on to become a high school typing, shorthand and business teacher, dedicating 35 years of her life to teaching young minds not just the mechanics of typing, but also the values of perseverance and precision, at Aberdeen, Bel Air and C. Milton Wright High Schools. Her former students often remember her kind encouragement and the calm, steady presence she brought into the classroom, including her great choice in music to type along to the beats.

Beyond her professional and family life, Suzanne was a treasured friend to many. Whether through a handwritten note, a listening ear or her signature homemade treats, she had a unique way of making those around her feel seen, heard and loved.

Though our hearts are heavy with loss, we take comfort in knowing that her legacy lives on in the lives she nurtured and the love she shared so freely.

A celebration of Suzanne’s life will be held at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, June 26, 2025, at St. Ignatius Church in Hickory, Md.