Susan Westbrook

Susan Westbrook, age 72, of Mena, Arkansas, passed away on Friday, February 23, 2024, at her home. She was born on November 7, 1951, to Harry Peterson and Bertha Walseth in Alameda, California.

Susan moved from Oakland, California, at a young age to Proctor, Minnesota, where she grew up on a farm, lovingly assisting her stepdad with all the chores, including feeding, milking, and cleaning stalls, as well as all the other tasks farm work entails. One of her favorite stories to tell was about her experiences riding bulls. Susan took great pride in her stepdad’s service in the army during WWII. She had a deep affection for both animals and people.

After college, she began working as a legal secretary for one of the leading law firms in the St. Paul/Duluth area. In 1995, Susan welcomed her daughter, Elizabeth, whom she adored. Together, they enjoyed horseback riding, dirt biking, and baking.

During this time, Susan also took up riding her Harley to destinations such as Sturgis and beyond. An experienced animal trainer, she trained two dogs and contributed to search and rescue efforts, aiding law enforcement and the FBI in solving numerous cases. Susan cherished this work, particularly training her German Shepherd, Hannah, for the job.

Life eventually led her to Texas, where she met her husband, Tracy. Life and God brought them to Mena, where they married in June of 2015 and enjoyed a happy marriage together. Susan was an active member of First Freewill Baptist Church in Mena until her debilitating back pain confined her mostly to home.

She approached every endeavor with unwavering commitment, embodying toughness and readiness for any challenge. Susan held independence, autonomy, and freedom in high regard. A captivating storyteller, she could always bring a smile to anyone’s face with her very animated renditions. Susan’s passion for cooking and baking led her practice her recipes until they were perfect, with everyone especially enjoying her desserts. She was a remarkable woman who touched the lives of all she met and will be deeply missed by many.

She is preceded in death by her parents; and her stepfather, Olbert Nygren.

Susan is survived by her loving husband, Tracy Westbrook of Mena; her daughter, Elizabeth Stuebner of Tustin, California; two sisters, Karen and Donna; three grandchildren, Ciarra Westbrook, Rain Roberts, and Cammi Westbrook; several nephews and nieces and a host of other relatives and friends.

No services are planned at this time. Cremation arrangements are entrusted to Bowser Family Funeral Home in Mena, Arkansas.

About Author

Ethan Nahté

See author's posts