Suzanne Marie (Retz) Fischer

Suzanne Marie (Retz) Fischer, 80, of Arlington, passed away peacefully on Thursday, February 5, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family. Born on October 14, 1945, in Hermosa Beach, she was the beloved daughter of the late George Hal and Nannette (Frantz) Retz.

Suzanne’s life was a testament to her deep and abiding love for children. She believed that every child was a blessing — a spark of light entrusted to the care of adults who could nurture their hearts and guide their spirits. As a licensed daycare provider for many years, Suzanne opened not only her home, but her heart. Generations of little ones found safety, encouragement, laughter, and gentle guidance under her watchful eye. She celebrated first steps, soothed tears, read countless stories, and patiently taught lessons that extended far beyond the classroom.

Her dedication to children also flourished through her involvement in her congregation’s children’s ministry and choir. Suzanne poured countless hours into teaching, mentoring, and encouraging young people in their faith. She had a gift for making children feel seen and valued, helping them understand that they were deeply loved by God and capable of wonderful things. Her Jewish faith was a cornerstone of her life — shaping her compassion, her generosity, and her unwavering belief in the importance of family and community. She lived out the values of kindness, service, and devotion each day.

Suzanne attended Modesto Jr. College, the University of California, Davis, and the University of California, San Diego. In addition to her work in childcare and at a reading and learning process clinic, she was a writer who thoughtfully reflected on life, faith, and family. Yet of all her roles, the ones she treasured most were wife, mother, and grandmother.

She was a loving wife to her late husband, David Fischer, and a devoted mother to her children: Shawn Fischer (Lisa) of Gaston, OR; Jeremy Fischer (Lynn) of Long Beach, CA; and Jess Fischer of Arlington, VA. Her children were her greatest pride and joy. She nurtured them with patience, wisdom, and unconditional love, teaching them through both word and example how to care for others and live with integrity.

Suzanne’s legacy continues through her seven grandchildren — Kris Fischer (Megan), Josh Fischer, Kaela Fischer, Jacob Fischer, Candyce Monteleone (Anthony), Kaytlin Kimball (Peter), and Bo Menster — and her seven great-grandchildren — Jackson Fischer, Amelia Fischer, Woodryn Monteleone, Delaney Monteleone, Sasha Kimble, Jori Kimble, and Wesley Fischer. Nothing delighted her more than gathering her growing family together, watching the younger generations play, and knowing that the love she had planted was flourishing.

She is also survived by her brothers, Paul Retz and George Retz; and her sister, Ann O’Dell. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, David; and her brother, Danny Retz.

At Suzanne’s request, she will have a green burial at Sunset Memorial Gardens in Kingwood — a fitting tribute to a woman who cherished God’s creation and lived gently upon the earth. Online condolences may be made at www.kingwoodfuneralhomewv.com. Kingwood Funeral Home is honored to serve the Fischer family.

Suzanne’s life was measured not in years, but in the countless children she comforted, the faith she quietly shared, and the love she poured into her family. Her legacy lives on in every child she encouraged, every song she sang, and every heart she helped shape. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

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