Susan Y. Hegdal

Susan Hegdal, 64, passed away February 20th, 2024 at home surrounded by loved ones after a seven year battle with lung cancer. Susan was born Yong Cha Kim on October 16, 1959 in Daegu, South Korea to parents Bill Cheng Kyu Kim and Jung Hee Lee. After the passing of her mother, Susan and sister, Mary Hae Kyong Kim, lived in Seoul with Aunt Bohki Sung, where she studied violin and traditional Korean dance. Susan moved to Detroit Michigan in 1971, where she graduated from Fitzgerald High School. Susan competed in local beauty pageants and was Detroit’s Miss Korea 1976. She married her first husband, Michael Mayeda, in 1980, with whom she shares two children. Susan moved to Colorado in 1983. She married her second husband, Thomas Hegdal, in 1993, with whom she shares two children. Susan worked in the restaurant industry most of her life, where she shared her gregarious nature with many. Susan loved to cook for her family, friends and those she cared about, but could never be bothered to follow a recipe. She enjoyed badminton, backgammon, and playing euchre with her card group for over 20 years. Susan loved the outdoors, hiking and enjoying nature with a special fondness for the Poudre, Arches National Park, and Saint John Island. Susan had a big heart, always welcoming people into her home and giving back to the community by volunteering regularly at schools and shelters. Susan found the most joy spending time with her family and spoiling her granddaughters. Susan was predeceased by her parents Bill Cheng Kyu Kim and Jung Hee Lee; sister Mary Hae Kyong Kim; and niece Ashley. She is survived by her husband, Thomas Hegdal; ex husband, Michael Mayeda; daughters Julia Halualani and Shelby Hegdal; sons Jeffrey Mayeda and Elliot Hegdal; nieces Lauren Kirkland, Rachel Kirkland and Grace Turner; nephew David Kirkland; and granddaughters Emi and Mei. A memorial service will be held 2 pm, Friday, February 23, 2024 at Bohlender Funeral Chapel. Susan’s favorite time of year was spring. To honor Susan, if possible, please wear floral prints or bright colors. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Homeward Alliance in her honor, a cause she cared deeply about. https://secure.qgiv.com/for/homalldon

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Susan Y. Hegdal

October 16, 1959 - February 20, 2024