Expanded Horizons - Susan Kristina McNutt (5/3/2007)

Sue McNutt was a longtime member of the Fullerton Chapter until she moved to Big Bear. She stopped renewing her membership when she was not associated with a Chapter and she was preoccupied with her battle with breast cancer. We always think of Sue as a member.  She lost her two-year battle with breast cancer on May 3, 2007, a battle she fought with the same grace and dignity that she demonstrated throughout her life.

Sue grew up in Napa. After high school graduation, Sue put herself through Humboldt State University and later enjoyed a long and successful career in Finance at Hughes Aircraft Company/Raytheon in Fullerton. After Sue’s dad retired to Lake Havasu, she grew weary of the drive to visit him, so she started taking flying lessons at Fullerton Airport. It wasn’t long before she had her Private certificate and joined the Fullerton Chapter. She also went on to get her Instrument rating.

The love of her life was Bob, whom she met while taking flying lessons at Fullerton Airport. They married in 1987. Both accomplished pilots, Bob and Sue owned his and her airplanes for many years. Bob liked twin-engine airplanes, first owning a Cessna 421 and later a Piper Aztec, while Sue owned and loved her Mooney. She enjoyed flying in the Palms to Pines Air Race and Poker Runs as well as trips to Southwest Section meetings and PCIFA events and flying back and forth to Big Bear, where they owned a second home overlooking the runway. Sue also donated her time and her airplane to fly for Angel Flight.

Sue remained active in the Fullerton Chapter, holding every office at least once, including Chairman, until Bob and Sue moved to Big Bear full-time in 2001. She was an avid horseback rider and became active and served on the board of directors of the local Vaqueros Club. Sue had been in Soroptomist since 1997 and transferred her membership from Fullerton to Big Bear where she was a valued member of the board.

In 2005, Sue was diagnosed with breast cancer. After conventional treatments failed to produce results, she studied and practiced alternative approaches. She kept the cancer at bay until Bob was killed in a tragic airplane accident on November 14, 2006. It was a terrible blow that Sue never quite recovered from.

A memorial service was held at the Presbyterian Church of Big Bear on June 9.