Susan Borders

Born on Nov. 22, 1970, in Wayne County, Michigan, Susan was the daughter of Jack H. and Donna K. Paavola.

She was raised in Baraga County in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, where her strong Finnish heritage deeply shaped her upbringing. The values of resilience, humility, and sisu–the Finnish word for strength of will and perseverance–were woven into the fabric of who she was. Her time in the U.P. grounded her in a love of nature, simplicity, and family that remained constant throughout her life.

Susan later moved to the Flint area and graduated from Flint-Carmen Ainsworth High School before earning her nursing degree from Saginaw Valley State University. She went on to serve over 32 years at St. Mary’s, now known as MyMichigan Health, where she worked as a neuro-nurse in the Neuro Intensive Care Unit. Over the course of her career, she cared for thousands of patients with unmatched intelligence, compassion, and clinical skill. Her colleagues were more than coworkers–they were her second family, and she loved them dearly.

Outside of her professional life, Susan lived with a sense of joy and spontaneity that drew people to her. Her three children–Jackson, Claire, and Cooper–were her world. She cherished every moment with them, whether traveling, enjoying concerts, or spending weekends at her beloved Houghton Lake home. Many unforgettable Fourth of July celebrations were held there, complete with pontoon rides, laughter, and memories that will last a lifetime.

Susan had a wonderfully mischievous streak–never one to pass up a detour to a casino, no matter how small or out of the way. If she saw the lights flashing, she was ready to stop and press her luck, often saying that “you only live once.” That same lighthearted, spontaneous energy carried through every aspect of her life.

Known for her candid wit and the ability to make anyone laugh–even on their worst day–Susan had a unique way of lifting spirits with just a few words. She loved candy, quirky body-swap comedies, and had a soft spot for Walton Goggins, especially in his unforgettable role as Baby Billy in The Righteous Gemstones.

Susan is survived by her parents, Jack and Donna Paavola; her children, Jackson Borders, Claire Borders, and Cooper Borders; her brother, Dean (Kristine) Paavola; her sister, Sandra (Jack) Gehr; her significant other, Glen VanOchten; her best friend, Tammie Castanon; her former husband, Todd Borders; her nephews, Daniel Paavola and Clark Moberg and her nieces, Kirsten Paavola and Callie (Chris) Stanton. She also leaves behind a large extended family and many lifelong friends whose lives she touched deeply.

She was preceded in death by her beloved grandparents, Curtis and Merl Chaffin, and Arthur and Irene Paavola.

A private celebration of Susan’s life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made to the Neuro Intensive Care Unit, at MyMichigan Health, in Susan’s memory.

Susan’s legacy is one of love, laughter, and living fully. She approached life with heart, humor, and an open hand–ready to help, ready to laugh, and always ready to roll the dice. Her light will be missed but never forgotten. To sign online guestbook, visit www.cremationsocietymidmi.com. Arrangements made with the Cremation Society of Mid Michigan.