Honoring the Memory
of Those
We Love

Please refer to obituaries for information on visitations, funeral services and requests by the family or deceased for honoring their memory.

Susan W. Tolmer

April 09, 1960 - March 29, 2023

Text:

Obituary For Susan W. Tolmer

Our beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, daughter and friend, Sue Tolmer, left us far too soon after valiantly battling cancer. Sue was born and raised in Pittsburgh, the daughter of Don and Cecelia (Albertini) Wilson. Sue married Jamie Tolmer September 19, 1987. Sue graduated from the University of Pittsburgh with a bachelor’s degree in Communications and Business. Fiercely proud of her city, she couldn’t imagine living anywhere else and was delighted to play her part in developing the growing artistic and cultural scene. Over her career, she held several positions as a fundraiser and worked with such institutions as the Pittsburgh Center of the Arts, the Heinz History Center of Western Pennsylvania,and Carnegie Mellon University. A vibrant force throughout her life, she commanded everyone’s attention when she entered a room with her zest, her dazzling smile, her infectious laugh and her impeccable fashion sense. The woman knew how to accessorize! She found such delight in connecting with people and sharing stories, always eager and excited to learn new things. She saw the best in people and had a kind heart - always doing what she could to help others in need. She delighted in cooking beautiful meals and laughing in the kitchen and around the dinner table with the people that she loved. Sunsets on the beach delivered her serenity and she trekked to Hilton Head every year. She loved all animals, but especially her sweet doodle, Wilson. Though she was outstanding with every position she took on, the roles of which she was most proud were as mother and wife. Her family meant everything in the world to her. Her eyes shone with joy and pride when she spoke of her children and her grandchildren. Quick to hug, quick to laugh, quick to love. Sue was exceptional and irreplaceable, embodying all the traits to which we should aspire. We are all better people for having been blessed enough to have known her. Sue is survived by the love of her life, Jameson D. Tolmer; four children, Jamison F. Tolmer, Robin E.Tolmer, Sara N. Tolmer and Caitlin A.Tolmer; grandchildren Ren O. Calabro, Paiton K. Tolmer, Brynna Holland, Russell J. Merwin, Gabriel D. Tolmer and Layne S. Crosby; sister Cynthia B. Wilson; brother David Shawn Wilson (Laura), and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. She is preceded in death by her father Donald C. Wilson, mother Cecelia A. Wilson, brother Kent G. Basich and daughter Holland R. Merwin-Tolmer. Friends will be received at the at the John F. Slater Funeral Home, Inc., 412-881-4100, 4201 Brownsville Road, Brentwood 15227 on Monday, April 3, 2023 from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. where a blessing service will be held on Tuesday at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, Sue requested donations be made in her name to Planned Parenthood of Western Pennsylvania or Hillman Cancer Center.

Photos & Video

Add New Photos & Video

Condolences

  • September 18, 2023

    Sue was a joyful, warm, generous person. Sincere condolences. Marla Meyer

  • April 05, 2023

    I met Susan through my son, and had way too little time with her. We were kindred souls immediately clicking and immediately laughing at funny things. Rest in peace, we will all miss you dearly, and we are better for having met you..🙏🏻

  • April 04, 2023

    I am so sorry to hear of Aunt Sue's passing. She wasn't my aunt thru blood but Aunt my choice. She was one of my favorite people. I am out of town and am saddened i cannot be there with you. Much love- Cami

  • April 03, 2023

    I worked with Sue in CFA. Her sense of humor and that laugh!! She brought smiles to everyone. She was one of a kind and will be missed.

  • April 02, 2023

    I would like to express my deepest sympathy and will pray peace beyond human understanding for Sue's Soul and for her beloved family. With sadness, Monette Shuttleworth

  • April 02, 2023

    Sue was one of the most sweetest kindest person that I've ever worked for, I met her when I cleaned for Ceil, her mom then when I started working for you guys, to see you girls grow up into fine ladies was all your mom wanted, her family came first.. She lit up the room when she walked into it a beautiful smile and a great laugh , I was so lucky to have known Sue and all her family. My thought and prayers are with you all, Love yinz Annie Brose your old cleaning lady.,💖 ( and Charlie your old dog's girlfriend)

  • April 02, 2023

    I was blessed to have met Sue and worked with Sue at CFA. She was an extraordinary woman with a lot of spunk. Countless hours in her office laughing and sometimes, crying. Rest in peace, my friend 💕

  • April 02, 2023

    I remember hanging out on Sue's porch before school or waiting for the bus to go to the mall. Even then she was so stylish. Many years later whenever we would see each other we talked about our family. She was so proud of them. Sue was so sincere and wise. I am really going to miss our conversations. My thoughts are with her family and friends now. Sincerely with love. Suzy Cibrone

  • March 31, 2023

    Sue was my office mate at CMU but, more than that, she became one of my closest friends. Her example of living life to its fullest inspires me to do the same. I will miss her every single day onward. To Sara, Caitlin and Jamie, know that you are surrounded by love and support. And, of course, by your loving wife and mother. She is with you always.

  • March 31, 2023

    Sue was a wonderful person. She laughed at everything, and loudly! During hurricane Ike, when I visiting Houston, she called to make sure I was okay. She will be remembered fondly by many former CMU colleagues.

  • March 31, 2023

    Sue lit up any room she was in. I loved working with her in her years at Carnegie Mellon. She was warm, funny, and cared deeply about her work and her colleagues. I had to smile at the description of her knowing how to accessorize. I remember just before one college function, I had spilled something all over my silk blouse. She took a scarf and knew how to tie it in a way that completely camouflaged and covered the stain. She saved the day in more ways than one. I also remember jumping up and down in a New York City elevator with her after meeting with a potential donor that we were certain would fund our request. Even though it fell through, that moment and so many others live on in my memory of her—-as a joyous, kind and loving person.