It is with heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of Susan Kay Hamachek on June 13, 2025, in Clearwater, Florida, at the age of 74. She was a beloved mother, grandmother, spouse, sister, aunt, friend, and teacher who will be missed dearly.

Her life was defined by the unconditional love she shared so openly. Susie found joy in spending time with others, especially her grandkids and she took great pride in the family she and her husband, Gary, built together. Her home was a place of warmth and laughter, where she welcomed everyone with her radiant smile and a glass of wine.

Susan was also a devoted English teacher who touched countless lives over her 10-year career at Dunedin High School. Her classroom was a place where students learned not just about literature, but about life, critical thinking, and self-expression.

She is survived by her loving husband of nearly 49 years, Gary Hamachek. She also leaves behind her devoted children and their families, Ryan Hamachek, his husband Bernie, and their son Eli; Jason Hamachek and his wife Tara, their daughters Sloan and Scout; and Brittany Simpson, her husband, Daniel, as well as their children, Naika, Reagan, Ava, Ransom, Naharie, Liberty, and Boaz; and her dog Waldo. She is further survived by her dear sisters Pam (Nick) Nickoli, Terry (Todd) Zeuske, and her brothers Walter (Kris) Peppler and Jim (Laura Lee) Peppler along with many loving nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents Dora Jean (Lindy) Cutter and Albert Patterson Peppler and her brother John Peppler.

Sooz leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and cherished memories. A celebration of her life will be held on August 7, 2025 at the Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay from 2-5pm.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a gift to the Pinellas Early Literacy Initiative in honor of Susan’s passion for education. https://pinellaseducation.org/research/pinellas-early-literacy-initiative/